PHILADELPHIA, PA — Nearly three-quarters of men surveyed by TENA reported postponing bathroom breaks while watching sports, a habit the company and two health professionals linked to physical strain, prolonged discomfort and reduced awareness of the body’s warning signals.
The survey found 73% of respondents had delayed using the bathroom to avoid missing key moments during a game. TENA released the findings during a crowded summer sports calendar, when fans may spend extended periods sitting and watching competitions.
Physiotherapist Alex Lee and clinical counselor Matthew Grammer, who partnered with TENA on the project, cautioned that repeatedly ignoring bladder urges, fatigue, stress and the need to move may contribute to longer-term health problems.
The research found 31% of sports viewers experienced a racing heartbeat, 27% held their breath and 24% noticed muscle tension while watching their teams.
Lee attributed those reactions to the body’s fight-or-flight response, which can shorten breathing, raise heart rate and tighten muscles during tense moments.
Grammer linked the repeated suppression of basic physical needs to a broader disconnect from warning signs that may contribute to chronic stress and burnout.
Potential signs include irritability, reduced concentration, mental or physical exhaustion, prolonged fatigue, shallow breathing, posture changes, tingling and muscle tension, according to the experts.
Lee and Grammer recommended that viewers stand and move every 30 to 45 minutes, use the bathroom when needed, stretch, stay hydrated and practice deeper breathing during stressful moments. They also encouraged viewers to periodically assess whether they are tense, hungry or tired.
“Many men associate rest with weakness or inefficiency,” Grammer observed. “But in reality, rest is essential for performance, resilience, and long-term health.”
Hazel Villarreal, marketing director for TENA North America, explained that the company hopes the findings encourage men to respond earlier to physical warning signs and discuss self-care more openly.
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