A recent study has provided insights into how long men typically last in bed, a duration that can vary significantly with age.
The portrayal of extended sexual encounters in films or adult content isn’t always reflective of reality. In most cases, the experience is brief but fulfilling. However, there remains a notable ‘orgasm gap,’ with women achieving climax far less frequently than men—65 percent compared to 95 percent.
Despite this, some men may feel disheartened by the rapidity of their own climax. Research now indicates that the duration can depend on several factors, including lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption, the last time one had sex, and, perhaps most notably, age.
As men age, it often takes longer for them to reach orgasm, which is not entirely unexpected.
Here is the average duration men last in bed across different age groups.
Research conducted by Lovehoney indicates that men aged 18 to 24 average approximately 16.14 minutes in bed. This might suggest that sexual experiences improve with age.
Nevertheless, sexual health nurse Sarah Mulindwa highlights that there isn’t a single ‘right’ duration for sexual activity. She explained to The Metro, “In your 20s, excitement and novelty are high, which can lead to quicker climaxes, but recovery is fast, and stamina is generally good. At this stage, it’s all about pacing – using edging, breathwork, or condoms strategically can help build control.”
However, she notes that communication, technique, and pleasure matter more than timing.
In the 18 to 24 age group, five percent of men report lasting less than two minutes, while 13 percent manage three to five minutes, and five percent can extend the experience for over an hour.
For those aged 25 to 34, the study finds an average climax time of approximately 18.29 minutes. In this group, 21 percent last between 11 and 15 minutes, and 15 percent achieve climax between 21 and 30 minutes.
“Research shows that session length tends to peak in the late 20s to early 30s and gradually shortens as men get older,” Sarah Mulindwa said. “Experience, rhythm, and better communication usually make sex feel smoother, though stress or time pressure can shave off minutes.”
Incorporating various forms of stimulation, such as sex toys, and scheduling dedicated intimate time can enhance experiences for this age group, she added.
For men in their mid-30s to mid-40s, the average duration slightly decreases to around 17.4 minutes. Mulindwa explains that a minor decrease in stamina is typical due to hormonal changes and early signs of erectile difficulties.
A more significant drop is observed between the ages of 45 and 54, where the average duration is about 14.15 minutes. The study notes that 25 percent of men in this group climax between six to 10 minutes, and 18 percent between 11 to 15 minutes.
This change is attributed to less predictable erections, with Mulindwa recommending vibrators and positions that require less effort, along with considering medical support if needed.
For men aged 55 to 64, the study finds the average time to orgasm is approximately 11.3 minutes. During these years, slower arousal and extended recovery periods are normal, with health factors and medications potentially affecting performance.
For those over 65, the shortest average duration is recorded, at about 8.15 minutes. Within this group, the most common duration is six to 10 minutes (28 percent), while 26 percent last between three and five minutes, and a remarkable one percent manage to extend the session for over an hour.
Despite the variations by age, Mulindwa points out that sessions lasting 10 to 15 minutes are typically the most frequent at any age, and longer sessions remain uncommon.