How Sex Might Affect Your Ability to Grow Muscle (07/26/2012) | Health Library

Have you ever been concerned that sex may be cutting your ability to grow muscle? If so, you are not alone. This is an age old concern, and many have sacrificed their bedroom time in order to maximize their gym time. There is a connection, but it may not be what you expect. Here are some important points on sex and muscle building.

Zinc-Testosterone Relationship

Possibly the most important relationship between sex and muscle building is the affect your activities have on your zinc levels. Every time a male has an orgasm some zinc is lost in his semen. Zinc is needed for sperm growth and development but also affects testosterone levels.

Reduced testosterone will often lead to diminished muscle growth, and eventually a lower sex drive, too. Without properly resupplying zinc lost through sex and your workouts, it is possible to become deficient. To achieve libido and muscle building balance, a diet high in zinc rich foods like oysters, pecans, cashews and more may be appropriate.

Many sports coaches warn their athletes to abstain from sex before competition. The feeling is that burning your energy in the bedroom will sap your strength on the field. This may have to do with relaxation hormones, such as oxytocin, that are released after sex. The stereotypical image of a tired and sleepy post-sex male holds some truth in this case.

Needless to say, going from the bedroom to the gym may result in a flat workout.

Testosterone and Your Libido

Aside from zinc depletion, there is a close relationship between testosterone levels and libido. More frequent sexual activity often elevates libido. Less sex will often lead to a lower libido. In turn, higher testosterone levels often raises libido as well. Maintaining high testosterone should benefit both sex and your workout, meaning an active sex life may actually lead to muscle growth if everything else is in balance.

Sexual deprivation can cause a lack of focus for many people. Excessive amounts of sex may do the same. For many, this is a non issue, but maintaining a proper balance between your sex life and gym time is essential for your quality of life.

The next time you question the impact sex has on muscle growth, consider these points. A healthy balance between sex and gym time can lead to the best of both worlds.