A Better Body Can Improve Your Sex Life

Want to shape up your sex life? Studies show that taking it off at the waistline can up lovemaking stamina and boost confidence to help conquer sexual inhibitions.

The healthier you are, the healthier your sex life will be, according to the American Council on Exercise. Experts' explanation for the improved sex: A strengthened cardiovascular system and souped-up circulation.

Consider this evidence that men and women alike can get sex benefits from visiting the gym:

* Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, found that three to four one-hour workouts a week helped men achieve more steady, satisfying sex sessions.

* In a Harvard School of Public Health study, men who worked out vigorously for 20 to 30 minutes could halve their chance of erection problems.

* At the University of Texas at Austin, researchers found that women's genital blood flow after watching an X-rated film was much greater after exercising than it was without the workout.

Personal trainer Darryl Bronson doesn't need sex studies to convince him of the benefits of being stronger and going longer. He credits his fitness level for his ability to keep up with his wife. "When she's feeling fit, her sex drive increases so she wants to have sex almost every day," he says, adding with a laugh: "I tell her it's a good thing I'm working out 'cause she would kill any other guy."

As for Bronson's clients, as they lose weight they feel less stressed-out and sexier — two legs up for libido. Some begin to wear tight shorts or bikinis where before they wore loose jeans and covered their bodies at the beach.

Confidence is the key to a fiery love life, psychology experts agree, because a mate can sense when you're feeling sensual.

With all of exercise's benefits — for sex and general health — don't overdo a good thing. As with diet and exercise, moderation is best in this arena, too because a too-strenuous workout can decrease testosterone levels and, scientists warn, sink the sex drive instead of spiking it.