$Unique_ID{BRK01090}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is Athletic Ability Reduced by Sexual Activity the Night Before?}
$Subject{sport sports sex performance Community Social behavior behaviors
lifestyle lifestyles abstain abstinence Athletic Athletics}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Athletic Ability Reduced by Sexual Activity the Night Before?


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QUESTION:  Please don't think that this is just a crank question, for I can
assure you there are a number of people here who feel that your answer will be
most important to us and your many other readers.  We wish to know if there is
any scientific evidence that shows that athletic ability is reduced in someone
who has had sexual activity on the night before the game?  Is there any
possibility it could be helpful?

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ANSWER:  Assuming a strictly scientific interest in this subject, I must tell
you that though the topic has been approached from many different
perspectives, there is little in real scientific evidence to prove either side
of the question.  You can probably imagine some of the problems encountered in
such a study, and one important factor seems to be the lack of funds available
to support a full study this problem.  Although the advice to abstain has been
a stock in trade of many coaches for many years, the origins of this advice
are certainly unclear.  One interpretation is that it stems from the vision of
the athlete as a type of hero, unblemished in both body and mind, who gains
victory as a proof of his purity or worthiness.  But there is little factual
evidence that points to the activity as using up reserves of physical energy.
In fact some studies on sexual activity in patients after heart attacks would
indicate that these energy levels are really quite low.  There are many
anecdotal accounts (that means they are merely stories rather than actual
scientific investigations) which attribute a relaxing benefit to an athlete,
which could enhance performance during competition.  In the absence of any
proof that I can find, one way or the other, it is my opinion that the
decisions, which most certainly are personal in any case, must remain with the
athletes, based upon their own perspectives and experiences.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.