A recent survey of 2,000 individuals conducted by the UK dating advice website Illicit Encounter revealed that gyms are the top location that “encourages” women to cheat, while for men, it ranks as the seventh most likely place for infidelity.
The study indicates that testosterone levels can spike within an hour after exercising, a hormone that significantly affects sexual desire and makes it difficult for individuals to resist temptation, according to sexual research expert Jessica Leoni from Illicit Encounter.
Gyms are perfect places for inappropriate relationships – (Image: DRAGONIMAGES)
Seeing others sweating, wearing revealing outfits, and breathing heavily can easily stimulate gym-goers. The expert emphasizes that even if a person does not intend to cheat, such imagery still makes it hard for them to resist.
Ms. Leoni states that gyms are often where married individuals engage in subtle forms of cheating (micro-cheating).
This behavior involves developing emotional or sexual relationships with others through spending time interacting with someone other than their partner. Gradually, this can lead to more overt infidelity, Ms. Leoni asserts.
She explains: “There are certain clear actions in the gym that can be considered micro-cheating. For example, excessively helping someone or giving unsolicited advice on nutrition and fitness.”
“Spending too much time with a personal trainer after a workout is another red flag,” she adds.
The expert compares micro-cheating to the courtship behaviors of peacocks, who display their beauty to attract attention.
“Those engaging in micro-cheating may try to run (on the treadmill) faster than usual or lift heavier weights to prove they are a desirable candidate for their partner’s needs,” she elaborates.
Additionally, she advises caution if a partner suddenly becomes enthusiastic about exercising and spends more time at the gym.
Expert Leoni also encourages couples to communicate, setting boundaries regarding behaviors they cannot accept in each other to prevent unfortunate situations.
The research from Illicit Encounter is not the only data supporting these findings.
The infidelity dating site Ashley Madison, based in Canada, previously surveyed 1,100 members, revealing that ¾ of respondents chose to exercise to maintain the attention of their extramarital partners. Very few exercise for health or longevity.
Another study by this site also indicated that “going to the gym” is the fifth most common reason for infidelity, followed by “working late,” “meeting friends,” “shopping,” and “business trips.”
