Yes, sperm races. On April 25th, the first ever Sperm Races were held in Los Angeles, California. A pet project of the entrepreneurial Eric Zhu, a 17 year-old from California, the first ever Sperm Races were held in an effort to bring awareness to men’s sexual health.
“The general public doesn’t talk about it, because it’s so taboo,” he told ABC7. “It’s always been associated with adult entertainment or something that’s degenerate. What we want to do is make it more of like a sport, a different type of entertainment, but more of, like, optimizing biomarkers.”
Indeed, conversations around sperm, semen, and sexual health in general are seen as taboo.This often leads to men struggling with sperm immotility, low testosterone, and low libido.
How Does Sperm Racing Work?
The race’s contenders were chosen from a pool of young, college aged men. They were given ample time and resources to train their bodies to produce the healthiest possible sperms they could. Vigorous exercise, optimal sleep, and a good diet are all key factors that contribute to natural testosterone levels, libido, and sperm health.
Once the training was complete, the two men produced samples that were then put to the test on an obstacle course: a microscopic racetrack that mimics the reproductive system, which includes chemical signals, fluid dynamics, and synchronized starts.
Special cameras tracked the sperms’ every move, ultimately ending in a win for the USC student in the first ever Sperm Races.
Sperm Speed: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Improve It
When we talk about fertility, most people tend to focus on the egg. But sperm—tiny, single-minded swimmers—play an equally critical role. Among the many factors influencing male fertility, one that often gets attention is sperm speed. But what does “sperm speed” actually mean? And why should you care?
In this blog, we’ll break down what sperm speed and motility really are, how they influence pregnancy outcomes, and what you can do to improve your sperm health.
What Is Sperm Speed, Really?
“Sperm speed” isn’t a formal medical term, but it’s commonly used to refer to sperm motility—the ability of sperm to move efficiently. It’s not just about moving fast. It’s about moving in the right direction, with enough energy to reach and penetrate the egg.
Sperm motility is generally measured in two ways:
- Progressive motility: This refers to sperm moving forward in straight lines or large circles.
- Non-progressive motility: Sperm are moving, but not in a way that would get them to an egg (e.g., swimming in place or in tiny circles).
- Immotile: No movement at all.
A healthy semen sample should contain at least 40% motile sperm, with 32% or more showing progressive motility, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
How to Increase Sperm Speed and Motility
Here’s the good news: in many cases, sperm motility can improve with lifestyle changes and targeted interventions.
1. Improve Diet for Sperm Health
Foods rich in antioxidants, zinc, selenium, and omega-3s support healthy sperm development and motility.
- Eat more: leafy greens, nuts, berries, salmon, whole grains, and citrus fruits.
- Reduce: processed foods, trans fats, added sugar, and soy-based foods in excess.
2. Exercise—But Not Too Much
Moderate, regular physical activity boosts testosterone and circulation. Excessive endurance training, however, can have the opposite effect.
Aim for:
- 30–60 minutes of moderate cardio or strength training 3–5 times per week.
Sperm production is sensitive to temperature. The testicles are located outside the body for a reason.
Avoid:
- Prolonged hot baths or saunas
- Tight-fitting underwear
- Placing laptops directly on your lap
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Cigarette smoke contains toxins that harm sperm DNA and reduce motility. Alcohol affects testosterone levels and sperm development.
- If you smoke, quit.
- If you drink, limit it to fewer than 2 drinks per day.
5. Take Supplements (Backed by Research)
Consider adding supplements known to support sperm motility, such as:
- Coenzyme Q10
- L-carnitine
- Zinc
- Vitamin C & E
- Folic acid
- Ashwagandha (shown in some studies to increase testosterone and sperm movement)
- Manage Stress and Sleep
Chronic stress can reduce testosterone and affect sexual function. Poor sleep impacts hormone regulation and recovery.
- Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep.
- Use stress reduction techniques like meditation, therapy, or mindfulness.
7. Get a Semen Analysis
If you and your partner are trying to conceive without success, getting a semen analysis can pinpoint whether motility is the issue. It’s a simple test, and it’s the fastest way to know where you stand. Contact Austin Urology Institute to set up a consultation today.
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