Men over 50 need twice the exercise for same heart benefits as women.
Men over 50 may need twice the exercise as women for the same heart health benefits, a study suggests.
Why it matters
- Women may need less exercise than men for similar heart health benefits.
- Current exercise guidelines may need revision.
By the numbers
- Men: ~9 hours/week of exercise for 30% risk reduction.
- Women: ~4 hours/week for the same benefit.
- 80,243 adults analyzed in the study.
The big picture
- Biological differences, possibly hormonal, may explain the discrepancy.
- Study highlights the need for sex-specific exercise guidelines.
What they're saying
- Experts call the study robust but note the lack of diversity in the sample population.
- Emphasis on the importance of exercise at any age for heart health.
Caveats
- Study population was primarily well-off, well-educated, and 93% white.
- Further research needed to apply findings to more diverse populations.
What’s next
- More inclusive studies to validate findings across different demographics.
- Potential updates to exercise recommendations based on sex.