I. Introduction
Kegel exercises, also known as pelvic floor exercises, involve contracting and releasing the muscles that support your bladder, uterus, rectum, and small intestine. These exercises are named after Dr. Arnold Kegel, who developed them in the 1940s to help women after childbirth. However, Kegel exercises can benefit men as well. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to do Kegel exercises.
II. Benefits of Kegel exercises
There are various benefits to doing Kegel exercises:
Improved bladder control
Kegel exercises help to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which can aid in controlling your bladder. Doing Kegels regularly can reduce the risk of accidental urine leakage, and in some cases, may even eliminate the need for medications or surgery.
Stronger pelvic muscles
Strong pelvic muscles can provide more support to your pelvic organs, and may prevent prolapse (a condition where the pelvic organs drop out of their normal positions).
Better sexual health
Kegel exercises can help to increase blood flow to your genital area, leading to better sexual sensation and pleasure. Additionally, stronger pelvic floor muscles can help women achieve stronger and more satisfying orgasms.
More intense orgasms
For men, Kegels can help to improve the strength of their pelvic muscles, leading to improved erection quality and more intense orgasms. For women, regularly performing Kegel exercises can enhance sensitivity leading to more intense orgasms.
III. Step-by-step guide to Kegel exercises
Locating the right muscles to contract
The first step to doing Kegels is to identify the pelvic floor muscles you need to target. The easiest way to do this is to try to stop urinating mid-stream. The muscles you use to do this are your pelvic floor muscles.
Note: Do not try to do Kegels while urinating. This can lead to urinary tract infections and may weaken your pelvic floor muscles.
Techniques for performing Kegel exercises
To perform a Kegel exercise, follow these steps:
- Empty your bladder.
- Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
- Tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold for 5 seconds.
- Relax your muscles for 5 seconds.
- Repeat steps 3 and 4, 10-15 times.
Work your way up to holding the contraction for 10 seconds or more. Remember to breathe normally and continue contracting and relaxing your muscles.
Advice on how often to do Kegel exercises
It is recommended to do Kegel exercises at least three times a day. Each session should consist of 10-15 repetitions. You should be able to feel a difference within three to six weeks of regular Kegel exercises.
IV. Common mistakes to avoid
Here are some common mistakes you should avoid while doing Kegel exercises:
Not contracting the correct muscles
When you first start doing Kegel exercises, it can be challenging to isolate the correct muscles initially. If you are having difficulty, try lying on your back with your knees bent to help you focus on the proper muscles.
Holding your breath while doing the exercise
Always remember to breathe normally while doing Kegel exercises. Holding your breath can increase abdominal pressure and make the exercise less effective.
Overdoing it at first
While Kegel exercises are effective, try not to overdo it. Start slowly and work your way up – overworking your muscles can lead to discomfort and interfere with your progress.
V. Who should do Kegel exercises
Everyone can benefit from doing Kegel exercises, but these are particularly recommended for:
Women who have given birth
Pregnancy and childbirth can significantly weaken the pelvic floor muscles, potentially leading to issues such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Doing Kegel exercises can help rehabilitate pelvic floor strength and minimize these risks.
Individuals with prostate problems
Kegel exercises can be helpful for men with prostate problems, including prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). By exercising their pelvic muscles, men undergoing treatment for prostate health issues may experience better bladder control and reduced incontinence.
Anyone who wants to improve bladder control and sexual health
No matter who you are, Kegel exercises can benefit your bladder control and can lead to better sexual health. You can start doing them anytime, anywhere.
VI. Different variations of Kegel exercises
There are a few ways to vary Kegel exercises, making them more challenging. Here are a few:
Increasing the duration or intensity of the contraction
As you get more comfortable with Kegel exercises, increase the duration and intensity of the contraction. Try holding the contraction for longer than 10 seconds and gradually increasing the intensity of the squeeze.
Performing Kegel exercises while standing up
Once you’ve mastered Kegel exercises lying down, try standing up. This variation adds more resistance, making your pelvic muscles work harder.
Using weights to increase resistance
Similarly, holding small weights or balls between your legs while performing Kegel exercises can further challenge your pelvic muscles.
VII. FAQs
How often should you do Kegels?
It is recommended to do Kegel exercises at least three times a day. Each session should consist of 10-15 repetitions.
How soon can you expect to see results?
You should be able to feel a difference within three to six weeks of regular Kegel exercises.
Are there any risks associated with Kegel exercises?
Kegel exercises are generally safe for most people. However, avoid doing Kegels while urinating, as this can lead to urinary tract infections and may weaken your pelvic floor muscles. If you experience any pain or discomfort while performing Kegel exercises, stop immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.
VIII. Incorporating Kegel exercises into your daily routine
Incorporating Kegel exercises into your daily routine is easy and can be done anywhere. Here are a few ways you can make Kegels a habit:
- Do Kegel exercises while watching TV.
- Perform Kegels during your daily commute.
- While sitting at your desk, do Kegels for a minute or two.
IX. Conclusion
Kegel exercises are a simple and effective way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, leading to better bladder control and sexual health. Remember to start slow and be patient with yourself as you develop familiarity with the proper technique. With time and practice, you will be able to do more repetitions for longer amounts of time, giving you a stronger and healthier pelvic floor.