The Benefits of Exercise are Greater for Women, New Study Finds
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According to a new study, there is compelling evidence that physical activity has significant benefits for women’s health. Previous studies have shown that any amount of physical activity helps to reduce the risk of premature death. However, a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reveals that women require less exercise to achieve the same benefits as men. Dr. Susan Cheng, the senior study author and director of the Institute for Research on Healthy Aging in the Smidt Heart Institute, explains that for a given amount of time and effort put into exercise, women have more to gain than men.
Reducing the Risk of Premature Death
Most adults are not meeting the recommended amounts of exercise, which includes 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle-strengthening activity per week, according to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. The study, which involved more than 400,000 US adults, revealed that women who exercised for at least 150 minutes a week were 24% less likely to die from any cause than women who exercised less than that amount. Among men, those who exercised for at least 150 minutes per week were 15% less likely to die than those who did not reach the threshold.
In addition to reducing the risk of death, the study also found that women who exercised were 36% less likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular events compared to a 14% reduced risk observed in men. Interestingly, men needed 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week to see the biggest reduction in the risk of death, while women achieved the same benefit at 140 minutes per week, with their risk continuing to decrease up to 300 minutes a week.
Exploring the Gender Differences
The study suggests several factors that contribute to the differential benefits of exercise for men and women. Dr. Cheng speculates that one reason is that women tend to exercise with less frequency and tendency than men, resulting in more substantial gains when they do exercise. Additionally, historical norms and societal factors have encouraged more physical activity among males throughout their lives. Physiological differences between men and women, highlighted by the study’s findings, also play a role. Women have been shown to make faster and greater gains in muscular strength compared to men when engaging in exercise.
Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at National Jewish Health, emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine and tailoring treatments and discussions based on an individual’s unique characteristics, including their sex. He suggests a minimum of 30 minutes a day of brisk activity for the best results.
Take Control of Your Health
Exercise is a free and readily-available treatment for better health. No matter the frequency or intensity, any exercise is better than none. By incorporating exercise into your routine and engaging in other healthy habits like eating plants, managing stress, fostering relationships, and getting enough sleep, you can optimize your well-being. Remember, it’s never too late to invest in your health and take control of your own welfare.
