Men Who Exercise Produce Better Quality Semen

21st September 2012

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Cordoba links moderate physical activity in males with better hormone levels and sperm characteristics that favour reproduction compared to sedentary men.

Semen quality at large has dropped in the last 50 years. Amongst other factors, this is due to exposure to external agents as well as alcohol and tobacco consumption. The decline in sperm properties is one of the factors behind the increase in reproductive problems over the same period.

The authors of the study assessed whether there was a difference in the hormonal and seminoligical profiles of physically active and sedentary males. Volume, sperm count, mobility and sperm morphology was measured in 31 men in the first study that assessed the differences between these parameters in both populations.

The results conclude that the physically active subjects display better semen values and moderate exercise may improve the hormonal environment and stimulate the sperm process.

In 2010, however, the same researchers published a study showing that the sperm parameters of elite sportsmen (triathletes and waterpolo players) are worse than men who are just physically active. It is possible that the increased strain of training causes a decline in sperm quality.

Vaamonde D et al. Physically active men show better semen parameters and hormone values than sedentary men. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 2012; 112 (9): 3267-73.

Categories: Sport & Exercise, Healthy Aging