Men May Need Nearly Double the Exercise of Women to Protect Their Hearts, Study Finds

A large new study reveals that men may have to work out nearly nine hours per week to gain the same heart-health protection that women achieve in roughly four hours.

Researchers analysed activity data from more than 80,000 individuals. They found that women who exercised around 250 minutes per week reduced their risk of coronary heart disease by about 30%, while men needed approximately 530 minutes for a similar benefit. 

Even at lower levels, the gap was evident: meeting the standard guideline of 150 minutes per week cut heart disease risk by 22% for women compared to 17% for men. 

Why the difference? Scientists suggest that biological factors may play a role. For example, women’s bodies may respond more efficiently to moderate exercise due to hormones like oestrogen and a muscle-fibre makeup geared toward endurance rather than power. 

The findings challenge the “one-size-fits-all” approach in current exercise guidelines and raise calls for sex-specific recommendations. They also show that any amount of activity helps—regardless of sex. 

Experts emphasise that both men and women benefit significantly from regular activity. But men may need to increase either the duration, the intensity, or both, to match the same cardiovascular protection seen in women.

For anyone trying to improve heart health, the key take-away is: stay active, aim for consistency, and tailor your routine to your unique body and lifestyle.