Prostate problems become more common in men as they age, and studies show that those who engage in regular physical activity are less likely to develop prostate cancer or die from the disease.

Here are some exercises that are beneficial for prostate health:

Walking and aerobic exercise

Good cardio exercise is also good for the prostate.

Do 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, such as walking, biking, brisk walking, hiking most days of the week, or swimming.

strength exercises

Strength exercises such as weightlifting or push-ups can be added to help increase muscle mass in your body, thus increasing calorie burn, and aiding weight control.

Kegel exercises

Kegel exercises are designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, according to a report in Healthline.

Women are often advised to do Kegel exercises, especially after childbirth.

But diabetes and prostate surgery can also weaken the pelvic floor muscles.

Kegel exercises can be done at almost any time.

Plus, it doesn't require special equipment, just some practice and focus to get the exercises right.

Kegel exercises for men

  • First you must find your pelvic floor muscles.

    To do this, start urinating and after a few seconds, stop the middle of the flow.

  • Focus on the muscles you just used, those are your pelvic floor muscles.

  • Begin Kegel exercises with an empty bladder.

    Lie on the floor with your knees bent and spread apart.

  • Tighten your pelvic floor muscles for 3 seconds, then release them for another 3 seconds.

    Repeat these exercises several times.

  • Make sure to focus only on the pelvic floor muscles.

    You will soon be able to do this while sitting or standing.

Kegel exercises can be hard to master and your doctor can help you.

How does exercise affect prostate cancer?

Urologist Michael Johnson of Johns Hopkins Medicine explains the impact of physical activity and obesity on prostate cancer.

"Probably, it's not just exercise that matters. The subsequent weight loss also makes a difference," explains Dr. Johnson.

"Separate research has linked weight gain to an increased risk of recurrence in men who have already been treated," he said.

In addition, obesity may also interfere with prostate cancer screening tools, such as PSA tests or a finger rectal exam, making it difficult to detect the disease early, says Dr. Johnson.

Regardless of how obesity affects prostate cancer, 6 it is beneficial to stay fit.

Prostate health exercises

If you've decided to start an exercise plan, check with your doctor first. "Men are different and as a result your routines and goals should vary based on your current health," Dr. Johnson points out.

"Your primary care provider can help you set realistic goals, refer you to an exercise specialist and build a team of experts who can support you in maintaining a healthy prostate and general health," he adds.

Keep a consistent routine

To reap the benefits of exercise, you must start slowly and stick to it.

"It's better to maintain a consistent routine than burn yourself out with a high intensity schedule and then quit," says Dr. Johnson.

Dr. Johnson advises that it is important to find an activity that you enjoy doing in order to have a good balance.