Have you been wondering what’s the Kegel craze that’s taken TikTok and Instagram by storm? Whether you’re a new mom, an athlete, or someone looking to enhance your overall well-being, understanding and practicing Kegel exercises can make a significant difference in your life.
This is because Kegel is an exercise that strengthens your pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support your bladder, uterus, and bowel. Over time, factors like pregnancy, childbirth, aging, and even certain medical conditions can weaken these muscles, leading to issues like urinary incontinence and decreased sexual satisfaction.
Named after Dr. Arnold Kegel, who popularized them in the 1940s, Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles of the pelvic floor. The beauty of Kegels lies in their simplicity – they can be done discreetly anytime, anywhere, without the need for special equipment.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss why and how Kegel exercises work, exploring their benefits, proper technique, and tips for incorporating them into your daily routine. Let’s begin!
What are Kegels?
As stated earlier, Kegels are exercises for your pelvic floor muscles. Now, you might be wondering, “What on earth is a pelvic floor?” It’s basically a group of muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and, wait for it, even your uterus if you’re a woman. These muscles play a big role in controlling your pee and poop. They help you hold it in when you got to go and release it when it’s time to go. Plus, for women, strong pelvic floor muscles can also help during childbirth.
How to do Kegels?
Here are 3 simple steps to start Kegels:
Step 1: Find Your Pelvic Floor Muscles
First things first, you need to know which muscles you're working. To do this, try stopping the flow of urine next time you're using the bathroom. The muscles you engage to do that are your pelvic floor muscles.
Step 2: Get in Position
Now that you've found your pelvic floor muscles, it's time to get ready to do some Kegels. Find a comfortable position – you can do them lying down, sitting, or even standing. Whatever feels best for you!
Step 3: Do the Exercise
Once you're in position, tighten your pelvic floor muscles like you're trying to stop the flow of urine. Hold that squeeze for about 3-5 seconds, then relax for the same amount of time. Repeat this process 10-15 times, aiming for three sets a day.
Who can Benefit from Doing Kegels?
Well, pretty much anyone. These simple exercises are not just for one gender or age group—they can benefit almost everyone. Let’s take a closer look at the main benefits of doing Kegels:
For Women: Women of all ages can benefit from Kegel exercises. Whether you’re young or old, Kegels can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can be especially helpful during pregnancy and after childbirth. Kegels can also help prevent or manage urinary incontinence, a common issue for many women, by improving bladder control.
For Men: Yes, guys, Kegels are for you too! Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help improve bladder control and prevent urinary incontinence, especially as you age. Men dealing with erectile dysfunction can also do Kegel exercises to improve blood flow to the pelvic area, potentially enhancing sexual function.
For Older Adults: As we age, our muscles naturally weaken, including those in the pelvic floor. Regularly practicing Kegels can help maintain or even improve bladder control and prevent accidents.
For Athletes: Athletes, listen up! Strong pelvic floor muscles are essential for stability and core strength, which can improve overall athletic performance and help prevent injuries, especially in high-impact sports.
For Everyone Else: Whether you’re young or old, male or female, Kegel exercises can benefit almost anyone. They’re simple, easy to do, and can be done discreetly anywhere, anytime.
Different Kegel Muscle Exercises
Maintaining a strong and healthy pelvic floor is essential for overall well-being, and Kegel exercises offer a simple yet effective way to achieve this. Let's introduce you to six different types of Kegel exercises, each designed to target specific areas and provide comprehensive strengthening for your pelvic floor. By incorporating these seven types of Kegel exercises into your routine, you can target different areas of the pelvic floor and gradually build strength and endurance. Remember to start slowly, listen to your body, and gradually increase intensity as you progress.
Adding a yoga element to the traditional Kegel, the bridge Kegel engages not only the pelvic floor muscles but also the glutes and core. Begin by lying on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips toward the ceiling, engaging your glutes and core, while simultaneously performing a Kegel contraction. Hold for a few seconds before lowering back down. Repeat for a set of 10-12 repetitions.
Incorporating lower body strength into your Kegel routine, the squat Kegel targets the pelvic floor while also working the thighs and glutes. Stand with feet hip-width apart and toes slightly turned out. Lower into a squat position, keeping your knees aligned with your toes. As you rise back up, perform a Kegel contraction, squeezing the pelvic floor muscles. Aim for 10-12 reps, focusing on form and controlled movements.
Perfect for discreetly practicing Kegels anytime, anywhere, the seated Kegel can be done while sitting at your desk, in the car, or watching TV. Simply sit up straight with feet flat on the floor and knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Contract your pelvic floor muscles as if trying to lift them upwards while maintaining relaxation in your abdomen and buttocks. Hold for a few seconds 4. before releasing. Repeat throughout the day for optimal results.
This variation adds a fluttering motion to the traditional Kegel, providing an extra challenge for your pelvic floor muscles. Begin in a comfortable position, either lying down or sitting upright. Perform a quick series of rapid Kegel contractions, almost like a fluttering sensation. Aim for 15-20 fluttering contractions, focusing on maintaining control and rhythm throughout.
Introducing resistance into your Kegel routine can amplify the strengthening effects on your pelvic floor muscles. Secure a resistance band around your thighs, just above the knees. Begin in a standing or seated position, with knees slightly bent. As you perform a Kegel contraction, push your thighs outward against the resistance of the band. Hold for a few seconds before releasing. Aim for 10-12 repetitions, gradually increasing resistance as you progress.
Incorporating balance and stability, the yoga ball Kegel challenges your pelvic floor muscles in a dynamic way. Sit on a yoga ball with feet flat on the floor and knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Engage your pelvic floor muscles as you lift one foot off the ground, balancing on the other foot. Hold for a few seconds before switching legs. Aim for 10-12 repetitions on each side, focusing on maintaining stability and control throughout.
Can Kegel Improve Sex Life?
You've probably heard whispers or seen posts about how these pelvic floor workouts can amp up your sex life, especially for the ladies. But what's the deal? Are Kegels really the secret sauce to a steamier time between the sheets? Basically, strengthening those pelvic floor muscles can lead to increased control and sensation during intimate moments. For women, this can mean stronger orgasms and even the ability to climax more easily. And let's be real, who wouldn't want that?
But here's the catch: while Kegels have become the talk of the town, scientific evidence backing up their bedroom-boosting benefits is a bit scarce. Sure, there are studies here and there suggesting that Kegels can improve pelvis health and may help with certain issues like urinary incontinence. But when it comes to their impact on sexual pleasure, the jury's still out. But just because the research isn't crystal clear doesn't mean Kegels are all hype and no substance. After all, countless folks swear by them, claiming they've experienced firsthand the difference it makes in their sex lives.
- Enhanced Orgasmic Potential
One of the primary benefits of Kegel exercises is their ability to enhance orgasmic potential. By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, individuals can experience more intense and pleasurable orgasms. This increased muscle tone can lead to heightened sensitivity during sexual activity, resulting in more satisfying climax experiences.
- Improved Sexual Stamina
Regular Kegel exercises can also improve sexual stamina. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help individuals maintain control over their pelvic muscles, leading to prolonged sexual encounters. This newfound stamina can result in longer-lasting and more fulfilling sexual experiences for both partners.
- More Sexual Confidence
Sexual confidence plays a significant role in overall sexual satisfaction. By incorporating Kegel exercises into their routine, individuals can develop a greater sense of control and awareness over their bodies. This increased confidence can translate into the bedroom, allowing individuals to explore and enjoy their sexuality more fully.
- Improves Intimacy and Connection
The benefits of Kegel exercises extend beyond physical improvements and can positively impact emotional intimacy and connection between partners. Engaging in these exercises together can foster a sense of teamwork and mutual support, enhancing overall relationship satisfaction. Additionally, the increased physical pleasure resulting from strengthened pelvic floor muscles can deepen the emotional bond between partners.
- Prevents Erectile Dysfunction
While often associated with women, Kegel exercises can also benefit men by helping prevent erectile dysfunction (ED). By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, men can improve blood flow to the genital area, leading to stronger and longer-lasting erections. Incorporating Kegel exercises into a daily routine can be particularly beneficial for men experiencing early signs of ED or seeking to maintain their sexual health as they age.
- Tightens The Vagina
Kegel exercises can lead to increased vaginal tightness, resulting in higher libido and sexual pleasure for both partners. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can improve muscle tone and elasticity, leading to a tighter grip during penetrative intercourse. This heightened sensation can lead to more intense orgasms and a deeper connection between partners.
Can Kegel Exercises Cause Pain?
The short answer is, it’s possible, but it’s not very common. Like any exercise, if done incorrectly or excessively, there can be negative consequences. Here are a few scenarios where Kegels might cause discomfort:
- Overdoing It: Just like lifting weights, doing too many Kegels can strain your muscles. If you’re doing more than what your body can handle, it could lead to soreness or even pain in your pelvic area.
- Incorrect Technique: Performing Kegels incorrectly can also lead to discomfort. If you’re not sure you’re doing them right, it might be helpful to consult a healthcare provider or a pelvic floor physical therapist.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: In some cases, individuals with certain medical conditions might experience pain or discomfort when doing Kegels. Conditions such as pelvic floor dysfunction or chronic pelvic pain could be exacerbated by these exercises.
When To Do Kegel?
Now, here's the beauty of Kegels: you can do them anytime and anywhere. Waiting in line at the grocery store? Do some Kegels. Binge-watching your favorite show? Kegel time. Heck, you can even do them while sitting at your desk (just make sure your coworkers don't catch you in the act!).
But like any workout routine, consistency is key. You're not going to see results overnight, so stick with it. And hey, why not make it fun? Set a Kegel challenge with your partner or turn it into a game. Who knows, it might just add some extra spice to your relationship.
Summing Up
Kegel exercises can be incredibly beneficial for many people, but it’s important to approach them with caution. While it’s rare for Kegels to cause pain or discomfort, it’s not impossible. By following proper technique, starting slowly, and listening to your body, you can minimize the risk of any negative side effects. And remember, if you have any concerns or experience persistent pain, don’t hesitate to consult a physician.
The post Kegel muscle exercises appeared first on Blog - EPORNER.