Why Kegels are good for both men and women

Why Kegels are good for both men and women

Kegels aren't just for women. These pelvic-floor exercises have health benefits for both sexes. Here's why you should give them a try

Men could benefit from doing Kegels, too. These pelvic-floor exercises may help them deal with incontinence, says Dr. Michael Greenspan, a Hamilton, Ont.-based urologist. As well, they may alleviate premature ejaculation.

Women do Kegels, especially after giving birth, to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles (the ones used to stop urine flow in both men and women). Vaginal childbirth stretches these muscles and can cause incontinence. Kegels may also be helpful for women with problems reaching orgasm.

So are there any differences in how men should do these exercises? No, says Wayne Seeto, a Toronto-based rehab specialist for Stott Pilates. "Men should do them the same way women do." One way is to sit on a stability ball, with good posture, to engage the pelvic floor. Kegels—named after Dr. Arnold Kegel, who created the exercises in 1948—involve contracting the inside of the pelvic area. "You don't want to contract the glutes, and the ball shouldn't move."