Watching sex movies can be an intimate, arousing experience. You and your partner can both learn new techniques and explore new fantasies.

Just like a young concert violinist learns to improve their skill by watching Itzhak Pearlman, your masturbation skills could benefit from viewing an adult performer you respect and admire. Here are 4 ways sex movies can improve your sex life.

1. They Turn You On

For many people, the sexual innuendo in these movies turns them on – and it’s not just the erotic dialogue that gets you hot. It’s also the sex scenes that are set against the backdrop of a compelling, interesting or thrilling plot that turn you on even more. Think hot MILFs seducing students, naughty school girls staying for detention, and that iconic scene in Eyes Wide Shut between Angelina Jolie and Ethan Hawke.

But, for some, the sexual innuendo in pornography can be off putting, or they find themselves comparing their own bodies to the models that are shown on screen. This can lead to a negative body image, which in turn can negatively affect sex life.

Thankfully, directors are starting to take note of this problem and some films are pushing the boundaries with more realistic depictions of sex, like James Spader’s character in Crash and Jane Campion’s depiction of polyamorous sex in Professor Marston and the Wonder Women.

2. They Help You Learn

Researchers have found that those who consume porn on a regular basis start having sex at younger ages and have more sexual partners. But, as with any aspect of life, sex takes work.

In movies, sex happens fast and easy, there’s no foreplay and they don’t have a post-menopausal dry spell or lose their erection during intercourse. It’s important to understand that real sex isn’t like this and it can be a bit of a journey, especially if you’ve never experienced it before.

Luckily, there are plenty of sexy films out there that will teach you about foreplay and how to create arousal during intimate scenes. They’ll also help you learn about what makes you climax, whether it’s a bit of oral gratification or some physical stimulation. For more educational material, try reading a sex ed book or seeking therapy from an expert who can guide you through the process. If you struggle with compulsive porn use, consider checking out a 12-step group for sex addicts.

3. They Make You Feel Better About Yourself

A movie like Knocked Up might not be the best idea to watch with your partner (especially if you’re currently in a committed relationship). It shows that great sex doesn’t happen magically; it requires work, dedication and communication.

The same goes for regular exercise, which has a host of health benefits. It also stimulates testosterone production, the key to a healthy libido. Plus, taking your partner on an adventure (like going to a rollercoaster together) can get the heart racing and creates an intimate atmosphere that will set you up for the bedroom later on.

If you feel that your use of porn is impacting your life negatively and you can’t seem to cut it out, then it’s a good idea to speak to a GP or LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor for help. Or you could book a session with an accredited psychosexual therapist. You can find one in your area using The College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists.

4. They Make You Feel More Confident

When you get to see hot guys or girls doing what they love to do — whether it’s dancing, acting, or sex — it can give you a much-needed confidence boost. This can help you feel more confident in the bedroom and in your relationship, too.

It’s important to keep in mind that not all movies are kinky. Some films focus on sex and romance without showing anything explicit, which can still turn you on. These are films like The Piano, Crash, and Pola X.

The more you move away from thinking of sex as just a physical act, the more you’ll be able to appreciate all of the ways it can make you happy. And remember that if you’re ever struggling with the sexual content of a movie, you can always seek therapy from a licensed professional who understands pornography’s role in society. There are a variety of counseling options available, including cognitive behavior therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.