Being healthy and young might not be the only incentives for a great sex life, as a new study suggests that leading a sedentary lifestyle can heighten the risk of erection problems in otherwise healthy men.

According to a report recently published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, a team of experts from Emory University, Atlanta screened 78 men aged 18-40 for quality of sexual function. The research team was spearheaded by Wayland Hsiao, MD.

Based on physical activity levels, the participants were divided into two groups – sedentary and active. The first group, consisting of 27 men, burned on an average 1,400 calories every week whereas the second group comprising of the rest of the subjects spent more than 1,400 calories every week.

Those surveyed were asked to fill in the Paffenbarger Physical Activity Questionnaire and were assessed on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scale. Analysing the results, the study authors found that lack of physical activity could increase the risk of developing not just erectile dysfunction, but also a host of other sexual issues, including orgasm difficulties and intercourse issues. However, it was clear from the findings that physical activity levels do not affect men’s desire to have sex.

It may be noted that there are a number of well-documented risk factors for male impotence. They include both physical and psychological markers, including Peyronie’s disease, kidney problems, brain and spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, stress, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. The new study explores in detail the lifestyle factors that could let men down there.