Your libido mirrors your energy, your blood flow and your hormone balance. Cardio is mostly training for your blood vessels, so blood can flow where it is needed.
What regular cardio does
- Better vascular function, including blood flow to the pelvic area.
- More stable hormones: testosterone and estrogen respond to regular movement and recovery.
- More stamina, in bed and outside it.
- A clearer head and less stress, which supports desire.
Two kinds of cardio
Steady state: walking, cycling, swimming or the elliptical, at a pace where you can still talk. 20 to 45 minutes, two to four times a week.
Intervals (HIIT): 30 seconds hard but controlled, 90 seconds active recovery, five rounds. Intensity 7 or 8 out of 10, never 100 percent. Choose low-impact machines: stationary bike, elliptical, rowing or incline walking. Stop at sharp pain.
A week in practice
Monday, Wednesday and Friday strength. Tuesday a 30-minute walk. Thursday 20 minutes of intervals. Saturday 40 minutes of cycling. Sunday rest or a light walk.
The full approach is in The Power of 50+
Questions or feedback? Write to us.
This is general information and my own experience. It is not medical advice. If in doubt or if you have complaints, talk to your doctor before starting intervals.