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What is a sex marathon?

How much sex is too much sex? Discover how to prepare for a sex marathon with your partner… And if it’s something you should do
on September 04, 2024
Read time: 5 mins

The thought of a marathon might send jolts of fear down many people’s spines, but the word doesn’t just mean one thing. 

Actually, you can take some of the fun elements out of the traditional marathon—the elation, the fun, the release, and even the sweat—and put those into action in your own sex marathon. 

Don’t worry you don’t need any training to engage in this sexual adventure with your partner, but maybe you need a little bit of preparation. We’ve got you covered…. 

What is the meaning of a sex marathon? 

Mind-blowing sex is a relationship component that may not be a necessity… but it’s certainly a plus. 

Part of the reason why people romanticize the honeymoon phase of a relationship is that it’s the time when you just can’t keep your hands off one another—with multiple orgasms a common side effect of an early love affair! 

During these periods, you may lapse into an accidental sex marathon, where multiple rounds in the bedroom are pretty normal. Unlike an actual marathon, a sex marathon doesn’t have to mean one huge sex session, with time for breaks factored in (as you definitely need them!) 

Some couples like to prepare for a sex marathon, where they clear their schedules leaving only one thing on the agenda—sex. This gives them a chance to focus on their sex life, with hours to explore new positions, try new sex toys, or just explore one another physically all over again!

Is having sex four times a day too much?

What counts as marathon sex differs from couple to couple! 

Some count it as how many times you orgasm, or how many times you engage in sexual activity or penetrative sex within a short period—with that timeframe also open to debate. 

Technically, there is no such thing as too much sex in a day, as long as you’re both comfortable, consenting, and overall enjoying the experience. 

How to safely prepare for a sex marathon?

Even though there are no limits on how much sex you can have in a day and a marathon sex session can be viewed as an exciting challenge—there are certain health considerations for couples to pay attention to. 

We’re only human and while our sex drive might convince us we’re up for anything, there may be some physical limitations holding you back from record status.

What are the potential health risks of engaging in a sex marathon?

Like any marathon, a sexual session of this nature isn’t without its health risks. 

There is a common myth that too much sex contributes to a potential heart attack, with the idea of a sex marathon resurging those fears!  However, research shows that fewer than one of every 100 heart attacks is related to sexual activity, meaning the odds are on your side. 

Other health risks are related to general hydration, as if you consider sex as a form of exercise, is pretty common sense. This means keeping lots of water on hand is a wise move, with breaks in the shower also welcomed to stave off dehydration (and to bring your body temperature down overall). 

For men, the thought of a sex marathon may bring on fears about ‘lasting’ or being able to participate in every round. The first thing we will say is to take the pressure off, it’s not really a contest but a chance for you and your partner to have some fun! Or, viagra is also approved as a safe way to maintain arousal (aside from certain heart condition stipulations). 

How do you plan a sex day with your partner? 

Does a sex marathon sound right up your street? 

While some couples dive right in, letting their passion lead the way, it can be helpful to plan ahead. It may not sound super sexy to be practical, but taking the time to account for your own needs (and to make sure you don’t get any pesky phone calls) can make a good time into a great time.

What are some tips for preparing for a sex marathon?

  1. Communication: Before you start running, walk first. Discuss openly with your partner why you want to try a sex marathon—is it to improve your sexual connection or to spice things up? Is it to try new things? Or is it just because you want to have some fun? Be honest about what things you want to try or agree upon a safe word for when you’re too tired/uncomfortable. 

  2. Foreplay: What’s the rush? Take your time to enjoy a bit of prolonged foreplay, whether that’s through role play, blindfolds, or other fun additions to make your sexual marathon the best it can be. 

  3. No sex rule: If you’re building up to a sex marathon, it might be an idea to opt for abstinence in the lead-up—to really build up to it. Try and refrain from masturbating or engaging in any sexual activity, so it feels like a real release when you get going… 

  4. Lubrication: If you’re planning on having a lot of sex, you’re going to need some lube. Vibrators and other sex toys can also help to keep you both in the mood, but try and hold out on these until you need them later on. 

  5. Hydration: We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—hydration is key! With so many fluids flying around (forgive the expression), you need to stay hydrated to keep the good times going. Take water breaks throughout the day as and when you need them. 

  6. Energy: Factor in some time for rest when you need it, and stock up on carbs to fuel up before and during your sex session. Or, if one partner is full of energy and the other needs a pause, why not take the role of the voyeur and watch your partner masturbate? Mix up the patterns to preserve your energy and have fun! 

  7. Maintain connection: Factor in some cuddling time within your sex session, maintaining that emotional and physical connection. This is also a great time to check in with your partner, ensuring they’re enjoying the experience and if they need anything. 

  8. Exploration: Sex marathons are a great time for exploration. Have you wanted to try some new sex positions? Or do you have a kink that you’d like to explore such as BDSM or anal sex? Be open about your desires with your partner and use this time to explore your needs as a couple. You never know what you might discover! 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is sex good for marathon training?

    There’s no clear evidence that sex will hinder your marathon performance, with several studies showing that sex before a marathon doesn’t reduce your ability. However, research shows that having sex pre-race may actually boost your performance.
  • Is sex 8 times a day normal?

    There are no decisive rules about how much sex is ‘normal’ as this varies widely from couple to couple, depending on sex drive, age, and several other factors. If you can both commit to eight times a day and enjoy it every step of the way, then go for it!
  • How do you stretch foreplay and sex into a weekend sex marathon?

    Stretching foreplay and sex into a full weekend marathon revolves a lot around communication, consent, and comfort. Pace yourselves, stay hydrated, conserve your energy, and enjoy it!
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