From the Guidelines
Masturbation does require energy expenditure, although the amount is relatively modest, equivalent to about 2 to 3 metabolic equivalents of task (METs) in the preorgasmic stage and 3 to 4 METs during the orgasmic stage. This energy expenditure is comparable to walking a treadmill at 3 to 4 miles per hour or climbing 2 flights of stairs at a brisk pace, as noted in a study by the American Heart Association and the ESC Council on Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions (CCNAP) 1. The physical exertion of arm movements, pelvic thrusting, and the physiological arousal response that increases heart rate and blood flow throughout the body all contribute to this energy use. Key points to consider include:
- The energy expenditure of masturbation is relatively low, but it does require physical exertion and physiological arousal
- The amount of energy used is comparable to other low-intensity physical activities, such as walking or climbing stairs
- Individuals with cardiovascular disease or heart failure (HF) may need to consider their energy expenditure and physical limitations when engaging in sexual activity, including masturbation, as those who are not able to manage the 6-minute walk test, or expend ≈3 to 5 METs, may not be able to handle the exertion required 1. Some important considerations for individuals with cardiovascular disease or HF include:
- Gradually progressing from non-coital experiences to sexual intercourse to avoid excessive exertion
- Assessing stability and ability for exertion using the 6-minute walk test
- Discussing energy expenditure and physical limitations with a healthcare provider to determine a safe and appropriate level of physical activity, including masturbation.
From the Research
Energy Expenditure and Masturbation
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that discusses the energy expenditure associated with masturbation 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, it can be inferred that physical activities, including those that may be related to masturbation, can have health benefits and require energy expenditure 6.
- A study on the health benefits of physical activity suggests that even minor volumes of physical activity can have marked health benefits, implying that masturbation, as a physical activity, may also require some level of energy expenditure 6.
Masturbation and Physical Activity
- While there is no direct research on the energy expenditure of masturbation, studies on physical activity suggest that it is beneficial for overall health and well-being 6.
- The energy expenditure of masturbation is not explicitly mentioned in any of the provided studies, but it can be assumed that it requires some level of physical activity 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Further research would be needed to determine the specific energy expenditure associated with masturbation and its potential health benefits or drawbacks 6.