54 BBC SCIENCE FOCUS MAGAZINE COLLECTION
EXERCISEResearch from the US and Nigeria shows
that for men with erectile dysfunction,
aerobic exercise can provide a natural
alternative to the little blue pills.
“Certainly major components in the
causes of impotence can be physical –
with a sedentary lifestyle often cited as
a risk f ac tor in it occurring ,” explains Prof
Brewer. Psychological issues, such as low
self-esteem and high levels of stress, are
also given as reasons for impotence –
something exercise can also help.Keep it up
Sexual function, and problems
such as impotence, may be given
a helping hand by regular workoutsBeat brittle bones
Regular strengthening exercise helps
your muscles and your skeleton“The aging process can take
it s toll on your bones, joint s
and muscles,” explains Dr
Herbert. Medical conditions
such as arthritis of the
joints and the natural
depletion of bone density
put us at greater risk of
serious injur y if we have
accidents such as falls.
But simply t aking par t in
routine bone and muscle-
strengthening aerobic
exercise can slow the loss of
bone density as we age. For
age-related health issues,such as a hip fracture,
making sure you’re doing
moderately intense walking
for 120 to 300 minutes a
week will cut your risk.
Exercise has been shown
to help in the prevention
of arthritis and other
conditions affecting the
joint s, such a s gout and
osteoarthritis. Research
also shows low-impact
aerobic activity can help
those suffering with joint
conditions to better manage
their pain.ALAMY, GETTY X2