DR. ARNOLD KEGEL
Dr. Arnold Henry Kegel (pronounced KAY – gl) lived from 1894 to 1972. He worked and did research in the field of gynecology in the United States. He was one of the first doctors to advance the use of pelvic floor exercise as an alternative to surgery in treating urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women.
He also developed the perineometer, which was used to measure the intensity of a woman’s pelvic floor contractions. He found that, through exercise, women could strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and reduce the symptoms of incontinence.
These exercises became known as “kegels”.
This video will show and simplify the use of kegels primarily for women.
KEGELS FOR MEN
We men can also benefit from pelvic floor exercise, though “kegels” first became known as a means to help women after childbirth.
Physiopedia tells us that the male pelvic floor muscles supporting the abdomen are active during breathing and may:
- Maintain urinary and bowel continence
- Increase local blood supply
- Enhance sexual performance
Causes of weak male pelvic floor muscles may be:
- Surgery for bladder or bowel problems
- Being overweight
- Heavy lifting
- Constipation
- Constant coughing
- Lack of fitness
Here is a video on male kegel exercise. Physiotherapist Michelle Kenway shows us how to work fast twitch and slow twitch pelvic floor muscles.
This video shows a kegel exercise with the Thigh Master.
MY EMPHASIS ON KEGELS
I do a workout every morning before breakfast. My preference is to change the types of movements, sets and reps constantly. This is to avoid burnout and at times to work around muscle groups that may be sore. As of now, I am having right shoulder rotator cuff soreness and have decided to suspend all upper body exercises temporarily.
I have been doing “kegels” for about a year – the fast twitch and slow twitch movements explained by Michelle Kenway in the above video. These have worked well, but I wanted to experiment with other modes.
Adding the “Thigh Master” kegels on an experimental basis was my next thought. I am doing 12 sets of 30 reps now, along with a simlar movement – 10 sets of 20 reps with a resistance band around my legs above knee level. I still do 2 sets of the “fast twitch, slow twitch” contractions.
I am doing 9 sets of strictly abdominal exercises also, along with 10 sets of finger exercises to combat “trigger finger” . That’s 43 sets, but I add 7 more to reach 50 sets, by repeating more of some I have done. All of these can be done quickly. I add cardio every other day.
AMAZON
I use Amazon links within my posts to provide relevant products at reasonable prices. This is affiliate marketing, which is explained in my upper menu – BECOME AN AFFILIATE MARKETER. Essentially, I may earn from activity on the links.
The Amazon links show descriptions, prices, reviews and suggestions for similar options. Here are a couple.
Thigh Master kegel trainer – I use this item every day. I use it on a chair as well as on a sofa.
Loop resistance bands – these are also great for kegel training and are less than $10
FINAL THOUGHTS
This has been a relatively short post, since I don’t have several decades of kegel training experience, as I do with body building and cardio. But I enjoy experimenting with physical therapy to measure the effects. It has always seemed to me that many medical doctors don’t emphasize physical therapy as much as they might.
I have used physical therapy for lower back, knee and “trigger finger” relief. I know the value. Still, I will at times ask my doctors for physical training tips and get only a prescription for pills. There are many exceptions to this, which I appreciate. My sports medicine doctor, for example, has much to say about workouts, physical therapy and joint protection, as well as many handouts for me to take with me.
As for kegel training, there are definite changes in that private area that I recognize now. I will enjoy being a kind of “guinea pig” and will report on my progress in later articles.
Please leave me any comments or questions in the “Comments” section below.
Let’s stay active!
Great discussion! It’s fascinating how Dr. Kegel’s pioneering work has evolved to benefit both men and women, proving the versatility of pelvic floor exercises. Your experimental approach with tools like the Thigh Master and resistance bands adds an interesting layer to traditional kegels. I also appreciate the emphasis on physical therapy as a supplement to medical advice—such a valuable reminder! Looking forward to hearing more about your progress and new insights in future posts.
Hi Herman! Dr. Kegel is well known to gynecologists and urologists, initially for advice to women. I enjoy doing the male version of “kegels” and do see some changes in my pelvic floor functions. As I stated, I am a big believer in physical therapy and physical fitness.
Hi Richard,
I read your article on kegels for men with great interest. It’s fascinating to see how Dr. Kegel’s work, originally focused on women’s health, has found its way into the male fitness world. Your experimental approach to incorporating kegels into your daily workout routine is both admirable and humorous, who would have thought the Thigh Master could be repurposed for pelvic floor training?
I couldn’t help but chuckle at the image of you squeezing away on the sofa with your Thigh Master. Perhaps you could start a new fitness trend: “Kegels and Chill”? All jokes aside, I appreciate your willingness to be a “guinea pig” and share your experiences. It’s a testament to your dedication to overall health and wellness.
Your point about some doctors not emphasizing physical therapy enough really resonated with me. It’s great that you’ve found a sports medicine doctor who provides comprehensive advice and resources. I’m curious to hear more about your progress with kegel training and how it impacts your daily life. Have you noticed any unexpected benefits or amusing side effects?
Keep up the great work, and thanks for the entertaining and informative read!
All the Best,
Eric
Hi Eric! Thanks for your input. It’s true, I do lots of movements on my sofa. It helps me to prevent back stress. Actually, I never used the Thigh Master before buying one for kegel work. The whole concept of kegels for men is somewhat new to me. The Thigh Master is being heavily advertised as the best answer for senior citizens to rejuvenate their sexual desires or capabilities. We shall see.