Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine have shown that regular aerobic activity can improve erectile function to a degree that approaches the effectiveness of common erectile dysfunction medications. This finding comes from a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine and adds to a growing body of evidence that lifestyle choices play a powerful role in sexual health.
A team of researchers conducted a broad review of existing studies examining how erectile function changes with age and how cardiovascular health relates to this condition. They found that many men experience a decline in erections as they get older, and that improving heart and blood vessel health through aerobic exercise may help stabilize or even improve erectile performance. To test this connection, investigators synthesized results from 11 high-quality studies that directly compared the erection benefits of aerobic exercise with those of drugs such as sildenafil or similar medications. The overall message was clear: physical activity can be a meaningful part of managing erectile issues for many men.
Across the analyzed data, individuals engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise three to five times per week experienced gains that were nearly on par with those achieved by taking ED medications. On average, exercise was associated with about a five-point improvement in erectile function scores, compared with four to eight points for the pharmacological treatments. There was also a modest boost in testosterone levels, roughly two points, though the most pronounced improvements appeared in those with more severe erectile challenges. The pattern suggested that those with poorer baseline function often demonstrated the most noticeable gains when adding exercise to their routine.
Mechanistically, moderate aerobic activity elevates heart rate and lung function, which enhances blood flow and vascular health. The researchers noted that, unlike many medications, sustained physical activity tends to have a favorable safety profile with relatively few adverse effects when performed at moderate intensity and with proper guidance. In contrast, pharmaceutical options can carry side effects or interactions for some individuals, highlighting the potential value of incorporating exercise as part of a comprehensive approach to erectile health. The take-home message is that exercise delivers tangible benefits without the burden of frequent side effects for most people. [Clinical context and safety considerations drawn from the review]
Beyond the core findings, experts emphasize that lifestyle adjustments—such as maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood pressure, and avoiding tobacco—can further support erectile function. While medications remain a critical option for many patients, the current evidence underscores exercise as a complementary strategy that may reduce reliance on drugs for some men and improve overall cardiovascular well-being. The tone of the research remains hopeful: adopting an active lifestyle can contribute to stronger, more reliable erections and a more robust sense of vitality in daily life. [Applied interpretation from the broader literature on muscle health, endurance training, and vascular function]
In summary, the consensus from the examined body of work is that moderate aerobic exercise, practiced consistently, offers erectile benefits that rival those of standard medications for many individuals. While results vary from person to person, the pattern shows that moving more and sitting less can translate into better blood flow, better function, and a more confident sense of sexual well-being. For some men, these improvements occur alongside improvements in general health, energy levels, and mood, creating a positive feedback loop that reinforces ongoing activity and healthier habits. [Integrated conclusions from multiple high-quality studies]