Observational Study Finds Lower Risk of Premature Death for Women with Same Amount of Physical Activity as Men
Regular exercise has long been known to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of premature death. However, a recent observational study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has found that women may experience an even lower risk of premature death compared to men, even when engaging in the same amount of physical activity.
The study revealed that only 33% of women and 43% of men met the standard for weekly aerobic exercise. Additionally, 20% of women and 28% of men completed a weekly strength training session. These statistics highlight the need for both men and women to prioritize regular exercise in their lives.
Dr. Cheng, one of the researchers involved in the study, emphasized the importance of even a limited amount of exercise for women. He stated, “Taking some regular time out for exercise, even if it’s just 20-30 minutes of vigorous exercise a few times each week, can offer a lot more gain than they may realize.” This finding underscores the significant benefits that can be gained from incorporating exercise into one’s routine.
The study also highlighted the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to exercise. Eric J. Shiroma, a program director at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), explained, “A person’s physical activity needs and goals may change based on their age, health status, and schedule – but the value of any type of exercise is irrefutable.” This means that individuals should tailor their exercise routines to their specific circumstances and goals.
The researchers noted that there are several factors that may contribute to the differences in outcomes between men and women. Variations in anatomy and physiology play a role, with men typically having increased lung capacity, larger hearts, more lean-body mass, and a greater proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers compared to women. As a result, women may experience added respiratory, metabolic, and strength demands when engaging in the same movements as men, leading to greater health rewards.
To promote optimal health, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults engage in at least 2.5-5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise or 1.25-2.5 hours of vigorous exercise each week, or a combination of both. Additionally, participating in two or more days of strength-based activities is advised.
The research was partially supported by NHLBI grants and contributes to the global effort to advance scientific knowledge, improve public health, and save lives in the field of heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders.
In conclusion, this observational study highlights the importance of regular exercise for both men and women. While men and women may have different physiological factors that influence their response to exercise, engaging in physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of premature death. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize their health by incorporating exercise into their daily lives, even if it is just a limited amount of time each week. By doing so, they can reap the numerous benefits that exercise has to offer and improve their overall well-being.
