Do push-ups help erectile dysfunction? Whilst push-ups offer general fitness benefits that support cardiovascular health, they are not a standalone solution for erectile dysfunction (ED). ED affects millions of men in the UK and often signals underlying vascular problems requiring medical assessment. Push-ups contribute to overall fitness, body composition, and hormonal balance, but aerobic exercise and pelvic floor muscle training provide more direct benefits for erectile function. This article examines the evidence behind exercise and ED, explaining which physical activities are most effective and when to seek medical help.

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction and Physical Exercise

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity. It is a common condition that affects millions of men in the UK, with prevalence increasing significantly with age. While ED can result from psychological factors (particularly in younger men), physical causes become more common with increasing age, especially vascular disease affecting blood flow to the penis.

The relationship between physical exercise and erectile function is well-established in medical literature. Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, enhances endothelial function (the lining of blood vessels), and promotes healthy blood flow throughout the body—including to the penile arteries. Exercise also helps regulate hormones, reduces inflammation, and improves psychological wellbeing, all of which contribute to sexual health.

Push-ups specifically are a form of resistance exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. Whilst they offer general fitness benefits, the question of whether push-ups alone can meaningfully improve erectile function requires a more nuanced understanding of exercise physiology and ED pathophysiology.

It is important to recognise that ED often signals underlying cardiovascular disease. The penile arteries are smaller than coronary arteries, so vascular problems may manifest as ED before causing cardiac symptoms. Therefore, new-onset ED warrants medical assessment rather than relying solely on exercise interventions. The NHS recommends that men experiencing persistent erectile difficulties should consult their GP for proper evaluation and management, which may include cardiovascular risk assessment.

How Push-Ups May Benefit Erectile Function

Push-ups contribute to erectile health primarily through general cardiovascular and metabolic improvements rather than through any direct mechanism specific to erectile function. As a bodyweight resistance exercise, push-ups increase heart rate, improve muscular endurance, and when performed regularly as part of a broader exercise programme, contribute to overall fitness levels that support vascular health.

Resistance training, including push-ups, has been shown to:

• Affect testosterone levels: Regular strength training can produce short-term increases in testosterone during and immediately after exercise. Long-term effects on baseline testosterone levels are more modest and variable, though resistance training may help maintain healthy hormonal balance, particularly in men with sedentary lifestyles. Testosterone plays a role in libido and erectile function.

• Enhance body composition: Push-ups contribute to increased muscle mass and reduced body fat when combined with appropriate nutrition. Obesity is a significant risk factor for ED, as excess adipose tissue increases inflammation and can disrupt hormone balance.

• Boost confidence and mental health: The psychological component of ED is substantial. Regular exercise, including push-ups, releases endorphins, reduces anxiety and depression, and improves body image—all factors that can positively influence sexual confidence and performance.

However, it is essential to emphasise that push-ups alone are unlikely to resolve erectile dysfunction. They do not specifically target the pelvic floor muscles most directly involved in erectile rigidity and ejaculatory control, nor do they provide the sustained cardiovascular stimulus that aerobic exercise delivers. Push-ups are best viewed as one component of a comprehensive exercise programme rather than a standalone treatment for ED.

Exercise Types Most Effective for Erectile Dysfunction

Evidence-based research identifies aerobic exercise and pelvic floor muscle training as the most effective exercise interventions for erectile dysfunction. A systematic review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise significantly improved erectile function, particularly in men with ED related to cardiovascular disease, obesity, or sedentary lifestyle.

Aerobic exercise recommendations include:

• Brisk walking, jogging, or running: 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity weekly, as per UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines

• Cycling or swimming: These provide excellent cardiovascular benefits with lower joint impact

• Interval training: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) may offer particular benefits for vascular function and metabolic health

Aerobic exercise improves endothelial function, reduces arterial stiffness, lowers blood pressure, and enhances nitric oxide bioavailability. While PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil work by inhibiting the breakdown of cGMP, both approaches ultimately affect the nitric oxide pathway, though through different mechanisms.

Pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFMEs), often called Kegel exercises, specifically target the bulbocavernosus and ischiocavernosus muscles that compress penile veins to maintain erection rigidity. Research demonstrates that supervised pelvic floor training can significantly improve erectile function, particularly when combined with lifestyle modifications. Men should:

• Contract pelvic floor muscles for 5–10 seconds

• Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions daily

• Consider referral to a specialist physiotherapist for proper technique

To identify these muscles initially, try stopping urination mid-flow once or twice, but do not regularly practise the exercises during urination as this could potentially lead to urinary problems.

Resistance training, including exercises like push-ups, squats, and weightlifting, provides complementary benefits by improving overall fitness, body composition, and hormonal balance. The UK physical activity guidelines recommend strength training activities at least twice weekly as part of a balanced exercise programme.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Erectile Health

Whilst exercise is important, erectile dysfunction management requires a holistic approach addressing multiple lifestyle factors. The following evidence-based modifications can significantly improve erectile function:

Weight management: Obesity is strongly associated with ED. Even modest weight loss (5–10% of body weight) can improve erectile function in overweight men. This occurs through improved vascular health, reduced inflammation, normalised hormone levels, and decreased diabetes risk.

Dietary modifications: The Mediterranean diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish, and nuts—has been associated with reduced ED risk. This eating pattern improves endothelial function and reduces cardiovascular disease risk. Conversely, diets high in processed foods, red meat, and refined carbohydrates may worsen erectile function.

Smoking cessation: Smoking damages blood vessels and impairs nitric oxide production, directly contributing to ED. Stopping smoking can improve erectile function, particularly in younger men without significant vascular disease. The NHS provides free smoking cessation support services.

Alcohol moderation: Whilst moderate alcohol consumption (up to 14 units weekly, spread over several days) is not typically problematic, excessive drinking can cause both temporary and long-term erectile difficulties through neurological effects and hormonal disruption.

Sleep optimisation: Poor sleep quality and sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnoea are associated with ED. Aiming for 7–9 hours of quality sleep supports hormonal regulation and overall health.

Stress management: Chronic psychological stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which inhibits erectile function. Stress-reduction techniques including mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and regular exercise can be beneficial.

Medication review: Certain medications can contribute to ED, including some antidepressants (particularly SSRIs/SNRIs), beta-blockers, thiazide diuretics, spironolactone, antipsychotics, opioids, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, and some older antihistamines like cimetidine. Recreational drugs may also affect erectile function. Men should never stop prescribed medications without medical advice but should discuss concerns with their GP, who may suggest alternatives.

When to Seek Medical Help for Erectile Dysfunction

Men should consult their GP if they experience persistent erectile difficulties lasting more than a few weeks, as ED may indicate underlying health conditions requiring treatment. Early medical assessment is particularly important because ED can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hormonal disorders.

Seek prompt medical attention if ED is accompanied by:

• Chest pain, breathlessness, or other cardiac symptoms

• Loss of libido or other signs of hormonal deficiency (fatigue, mood changes, reduced muscle mass)

• Penile deformity, pain, or curvature (which may indicate Peyronie's disease)

• Urinary symptoms suggesting prostate problems

• Sudden onset following trauma or new medication

• Relationship difficulties or significant psychological distress

During consultation, GPs typically conduct a comprehensive assessment including medical history, physical examination, and relevant investigations. Blood tests may check for diabetes (HbA1c), lipid profile, morning testosterone levels (repeated if low), and thyroid function. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire may be used to assess severity.

First-line treatment typically involves lifestyle modification and, where appropriate, phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil. Generic sildenafil is commonly available on NHS prescription, while other PDE5 inhibitors may be subject to local formulary guidelines. Sildenafil is also available over-the-counter from pharmacies (as Viagra Connect) following pharmacist assessment.

Important safety information: PDE5 inhibitors must not be taken with nitrate medications or riociguat due to dangerous blood pressure drops. Caution is needed when taking alpha-blockers. Men should seek urgent medical attention for erections lasting more than 4 hours (priapism). Any suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Men should be aware that whilst lifestyle changes including exercise are important, they should not delay seeking medical advice in favour of self-management alone. Professional assessment ensures that underlying conditions are identified and treated appropriately, and that men receive evidence-based treatments offering the best chance of improvement. Referral to specialist services, including urology or sexual health clinics, may be appropriate in complex cases or when first-line treatments are ineffective.

Frequently Asked Questions