England faces Norway in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals tonight, and the nation is hoping for victory. Some have wondered whether abstaining from sex could give players an edge, but medical experts say the belief is largely a myth.
The Myth of Abstinence and Testosterone
The idea that avoiding sex increases testosterone levels, thereby improving athletic performance, has been promoted by some sports figures. Boxers Mike Tyson and Amir Khan have previously admitted to abstaining before fights, with Khan claiming it gives him 'tunnel vision.' New York Knicks owner James Dolan also urged his players to go without during their championship run, which ended a 53-year drought in June.
However, Dr Ben Davis, a GP specialising in men's health at Central Health London, tells Metro: 'The core myth that abstinence “banks” testosterone doesn’t hold up well.' He notes the theory likely stems from a small 2003 study showing a 'modest' testosterone increase after seven days of abstinence, but no evidence of benefits beyond that. 'This is frequently over-interpreted online,' he adds.
What Actually Affects Performance?
Both Dr Davis and Dr Jeff Foster, an NHS GP and men's health specialist, agree that sleep, training load, nutrition, and stress management are far more important than sexual activity. 'These dwarf anything sex-related,' Dr Davis says. Dr Foster adds: 'It’s more of a culture thing, and loads of coaches have said it for years, although it’s more urban legend than medical fact.'
However, timing matters. Dr Davis explains that hormones like cortisol and dopamine are affected by sexual activity. 'Some athletes perform better when maintaining a higher arousal or drive state, so abstaining in the days before may help preserve that edge.' But he emphasises that post-orgasm effects like sleepiness resolve within hours.
Potential Benefits of Sex for Athletes
Contrary to the abstinence myth, sex may actually aid recovery. Dr Foster notes that sex 'reduces stress, improves mood and encourages relaxation,' and if performed more than 21 times per month, it can decrease prostate cancer risk. 'But what it won’t help you do is kick a ball or run faster,' he says.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has reversed a ban on players' partners visiting the team hotel during the tournament, suggesting the squad may not be abstaining. As the team prepares for tonight's match, the focus remains on strategy and preparation rather than bedroom habits.
