Kegel Exercise: What Is It and Why You Should Do It

You’ve probably read that it’s a good idea to practice Kegels to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. If you’re wondering why that’s important, though, here’s the deal: Most women (and some guys, too) can benefit from Kegels to have better sex (yep!) and help with urinary incontinence—which is often an issue for ladies who’ve recently given birth. Curious to know more? Here’s a closer look at some of the benefits and exactly how to perform a Kegel step by step.

Using a Kegel Device

If you find it difficult to perform Kegels on your own—a Kegel device may help. There are different types of devices, such as vaginal weights, wands and Kegel trackers to help confirm you are performing Kegels correctly and even track your progress. The Elvie Kegel Exercise Trainer* easily inserts into the vagina and connects to an app on your smartphone. It gives you instant feedback with each Kegel you perform so you know you are squeezing correctly. Plus you can follow along with five-minute pre-designed workout games on the app. That makes performing Kegels more enjoyable than doing them on your own.

Can Kegels Benefit Your Skin?

One unexpected benefit of Kegels is that they may leave your skin looking healthier, too. Some yoga instructors believe practicing a move called the Kundalini root lock (similar to a pelvic Kegel combined with rapid and deep yoga breaths) tones both the pelvic muscles and directly tones your facial muscles as a result. After this move, you may experience a glow similar to the one some women get post-sex. “The skin always looks better when muscles are tight underneath,” adds Delucia. “So by tightening the muscles ‘down there,’ the skin looks better, too,” she notes.