A new research study carried out by the University of Cordoba on healthy triathletes has found that there is a direct link between the amount of cycling a man performs and his sperm count.

The suggestion from the study is that men who cycle more than 186 miles a week have a significantly lower sperm count than those men who don't. Another interesting point to be made is that 186 miles cycling a week isn't an exceptional distance in the saddle and that it is possible for amateur and communter cyclists to cover such distances.

For a number of years now scientists have suggested that lower sperm count in cyclists could be blamed on saddle friction and localised heat generated by tight clothing, which shows an adverse effect on sperm count in men.

This friction and heat on the body results in an abnormal increase in special molecules which in turn alter sperm quality.

Scientists are now suggesting cyclists freeze their sperm before they start high intensity training in a bid to protect their fertility.