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A groundbreaking study published on February 19, 2024, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that women may derive more health benefits from exercise than men, even when engaging in similar levels of physical activity. Sponsored in part by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the study sheds light on the distinct advantages women may experience in terms of longevity and cardiovascular health.
The research, which analyzed data from over 400,000 Americans with an average age of 44, found that women who exercised regularly exhibited a 24% lower risk of premature death from any cause compared to men, who showed a 15% reduction in risk. Moreover, women enjoyed a remarkable 36% lower risk of cardiovascular-related death, while men experienced a 14% reduction.
Dr. Daniel Atkinson, GP Clinical Lead at Treated, noted several potential reasons behind this gender disparity in the benefits of exercise. Physiological differences, including women’s relatively lower lean muscle mass and strength, may lead to greater relative improvements in circulation and overall health outcomes in response to exercise. Additionally, women’s higher proportion of Type I oxidative muscle fibers, which are conducive to cardiovascular endurance, may contribute to their enhanced response to physical activity.
Dr. Tracy Zaslow, primary care sports medicine specialist at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute, emphasized the importance of tailored exercise prescriptions, suggesting that both genders may benefit from aiming for 300 minutes of exercise per week rather than the current recommendation of 150 minutes. She advised women to start with small amounts of exercise and gradually increase intensity, incorporate social support by exercising with a partner or family, and integrate physical activity into daily routines.
While the study sheds light on the potential for gender-specific exercise interventions, further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms driving these disparities fully. Nevertheless, these findings underscore the importance of personalized exercise regimens tailored to individual needs, ultimately empowering individuals to optimize their health and well-being through physical activity.
