READ MORE: Man gives account of genital condition that 'no one talks about'See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy CIARAN FOREMAN, HEALTH REPORTER Published: 12:12 BST, 10 August 2026 | Updated: 12:19 BST, 10 August 2026
The so-called post-workout 'pump' typically leaves muscles looking bigger, stronger and fuller.But an expert has warned that, particularly for men, it may have the opposite effect below the belt.Known as 'gym penis', the term has been coined to describe genitals looking smaller-than-usual after intense exercise.And according to Chris Bustamante, an aesthetic nurse practitioner and the founder of Lushful Aesthetics, this is a little-known, yet normal, symptom of working out.He told the New York Post: 'Many men experience some degree of temporary retraction while working out, but the amount varies dramatically.'Mr Bustamante said some people will 'barely notice it' while others 'may feel like they are turtling' – a term used for when the penis retracts closer to the body.It may be triggered by exercises that activate the body's 'fight or flight' reflexes.These include intense cardio, such as running, which can increase adrenaline levels, as well as heavy weightlifting. The post-workout 'pump' typically causes muscles to look stronger and fuller, but an expert has warned that intense exercise may have the opposite effect below the belt
