Sex vs. Steps: Does More Exercise Lead to a Better Sex Life?

We all know that working out is good for our physical health, but what about our sex lives?

To find out, ZipHealth surveyed 1,000 Americans and analyzed fitness tracker data to explore how daily movement might impact libido, confidence, and sexual satisfaction. The results reveal a powerful connection between physical activity and intimacy, showing that getting your steps in might just mean more between the sheets.

Key takeaways

• Americans who walk 10,000+ steps a day report significantly higher sexual satisfaction, including 79% of Gen Z and 62% of millennials.
• Physically active people are 76% more likely than those who are sedentary to report sexual satisfaction.
• Nearly 1 in 3 Americans (32%) avoid sex because they feel out of shape.
• Around 70% of Americans experience a boost in sexual confidence from working out.
• Nearly 2 in 5 Americans (38%) report improvements in their sex life after hitting a fitness milestone or personal record.

How step count shapes your sex life

Small changes in physical activity may have big effects in the bedroom. Here's a look at how daily steps relate to the frequency of sex and overall satisfaction.

Across generations, respondents who walked more reported more sex. Gen Zers who hit 10,000+ steps per day averaged nine sexual encounters per month, while those logging under 2,000 steps had just one. Millennials who reached the 10,000-step mark averaged seven encounters, nearly double those with under 2,000 steps.

Those higher step counts are also linked to greater sexual satisfaction. Among Gen Z, 79% of those walking 10,000+ steps reported satisfaction, followed by 62% of millennials. Compared to sedentary people, physically active individuals were 76% more likely to feel sexually satisfied.

But not everyone felt great about their bodies. Nearly 1 in 3 Americans said they've avoided sex because they feel out of shape, including 35% of millennials and 25% of Gen Z. For many, getting active isn't just about fitness — it's about feeling good enough to enjoy intimacy.

Working out boosts sexual confidence

Feeling stronger and more fit can seriously lift your confidence. See which exercises are empowering people to feel better about sex.

Overall, 70% of Americans reported a boost in sexual confidence from working out. That included 73% of millennials, 69% of Gen Z, 73% of men, and 68% of women, showing just how universal this benefit can be.

When it comes to which physical traits matter most for sexual performance, cardiovascular endurance (50%) and core strength (49%) topped the list, followed by flexibility and mobility (46%). These functions often go hand-in-hand with improved stamina, balance, and confidence in the bedroom.

Interestingly, gender influenced the perceived importance of certain traits. For women, flexibility/mobility (56%) was the top factor, while men prioritized cardiovascular endurance (54%) and core strength (51%). No matter the focus, being active helped people feel more in control of their bodies and their desires.

Fitness milestones spark sexual energy

Achieving goals at the gym may light a spark outside of it. Personal records (PRs) and workout routines are influencing sexual confidence and communication.

On days they exercised, 62% of Americans said they felt more confident initiating sex. That number was slightly higher among men (65%) but still strong for women (59%). Gen Z (65%) and millennials (64%) also felt more in the mood after a workout. In fact, 38% of Americans noticed a general improvement in their sex lives after hitting a fitness milestone, whether that was a new PR or simply sticking to a routine.

Still, sexual health isn't always a part of the fitness conversation. Just 9% of respondents said they talk about sex with their trainer or workout partner. That includes 11% of men and 8% of women. As we learn more about the connection between movement and intimacy, opening up these conversations could help even more people feel empowered in both spaces.

Movement meets motivation

From boosting confidence to increasing desire, physical activity clearly plays a role in shaping our sexual well-being. Whether it's reaching 10,000 steps or celebrating a personal best at the gym, these moments of movement can lead to more satisfaction, more confidence, and even more connection. For anyone looking to improve their sex life, lacing up your sneakers might be a great place to start.

Methodology

We surveyed 1,000 Americans to explore the connection between physical fitness and sexual satisfaction. The average age was 40; 54% were male, and 46% were female. Generationally, 26% were baby boomers and Gen X (combined), 55% were millennials, and 19% were Gen Z.

About ZipHealth

With ZipHealth, you can access discreet online health consultations and treatments for various conditions, including medications like Viagra and Sildenafil. We strive to provide accessible and convenient health care, ensuring you can manage your health comfortably and privately.

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