Cycling and ED: A Terrible Pairing?

Cycling is a great way to stay healthy and active. Unlike running, bicycle riding doesn’t strain your joints and knees much, making it suitable for all ages. Hence, this low-impact activity can help you lose weight, improve your heart health, and boost your psychological well-being. It’s also a sustainable mode of transportation favored by eco-conscious people.

Despite its wonderful benefits, some people — especially men — may avoid cycling altogether. Due to its setup, some worry that cycling may damage their reproductive organs and cause erectile dysfunction (ED). This blog will discuss the correlation between cycling and ED and how to prevent discomfort and illness while riding.

How Cycling Affects the Sexual Organ

The seat design of bikes distributes your weight across both buttocks and puts pressure on the perineum, the area between the anus and genitals. The nerves and muscles that run through this region control your sexual function and the excretory and urinary systems. Thus, sitting on a bike for extended periods compresses those crucial arteries and nerves, preventing proper blood flow and impulse signals to the brain. This can make you unable to have or maintain an erection.

A Norwegian study has revealed that cycling for over 300 miles can cause loss of sensation in the penis. Additionally, more than 20% of participants developed ED, which lasted several weeks.

Meanwhile, a health assessment study was conducted for a bicycling police unit in Ohio. Seventeen members of the patrol unit are found to have experienced genital numbness, with the ones riding the longest having the highest risk of ED.

Researchers also reviewed data from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study, a cross-sectional survey of over 1,700 free-living men between the ages of 40 and 70. They found that men cycling at least three hours a week have a higher chance of developing moderate or complete ED due to artery blockage and long-term damage.

The link between riding and ED isn’t new, either. In ancient times, Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, found a connection between horseback riding and male sexual issues. He claimed that the constant jolting of horse riding makes men unfit for intercourse and causes impotence.

Protecting Your Sexual Health While Riding

While the results may seem concerning, it doesn’t mean you should completely forget about cycling. There are several strategies you can use to protect your sexual organs while enjoying a ride.

1. Pick the Right Seat

A bike seat is the most critical thing you need to consider; regular bike seats aren’t usually designed for comfort. If your bike has a racing seat with a long, narrow nose, replace it with a wider one with plenty of padding. Seats with no nose or those with rectangular shapes provide even better support for your perineum. You may also consider shock-absorbing or gel-filled seats for improved padding.

2. Adjust Your Seat Accordingly

It’s also important to keep the seat leveled — never tilt it upward since this increases pressure on your perineum when cycling. Also, adjust the height to prevent extending your legs as you paddle. This prevents unnecessary strain on each side of the perineum.

3. Buy Padded Shorts

Investing in quality padded shorts provides an extra layer of protection. They help reduce pressure on your perineum while increasing comfort for longer rides.

4. Add Variety to Your Routine

In some studies, the risk of developing ED was highest among those who cycle a lot. So, consider reducing your cycling hours or taking regular breaks during long trips. You can also stand on the pedals while cycling or unmount and walk for a few minutes.

In addition, instead of choosing bicycle riding as your sole physical activity, consider adding a variety of exercises to your routine. Switch to swimming, jogging, Zumba, or other forms of workout that can get your heart racing.

Steel Man Pills: Helping You Ride Without the Fear of ED

Evidence shows that cycling may cause ED. However, a few changes in how you ride can significantly reduce your risk. If you’re suffering from erection issues, Steel Man Pills can help! We have tried and tested products to bring back your virility and help you enjoy a better sex life. Call us today at 877-314-2934.