Do Women Suffer More From Lack of Exercise Than Men?

Exercise provides mental, physical and emotional health benefits. Men and women can both suffer from lack of exercise. A study released by Oregon State University, conducted by Paul Loprinzi and Bradley Cardinal, demonstrates that exercise provides positive health benefits for men and women, but a greater association of positive benefits for women. The results of the study suggest that women may suffer more than men in some areas of health because women learn patterns in childhood that influence exercise and confidence.

  1. Stress Effects

    • Stress affects the body mentally and physically. The American Psychological Association states that men and women have similar stress levels, but women are more likely to suggest that stress levels are increasing, and to complain of physical and emotional side effects of stress. These symptoms may include headaches, indigestion, fatigue and insomnia. Women also exercise far less than men -- only once per week or less often due to fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control recommends moderate to intense aerobic physical activity for at least two and one half hours each week.

    Depression

    • Women are less likely to engage in exercise and more susceptible to depression, and symptoms of depression including crying, headaches, restlessness and upset stomach. Depression can also lead to advanced risk of abdominal fat and insulin risk which increases a woman’s risk of developing other health conditions. According to the OSU study, 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day can promote health and wellness and eliminate depression. Brisk walking or swimming qualifies as moderate-to-intense exercise.

    Metabolic Syndrome

    • Women are more at risk for metabolic syndrome, a term used to describe a group of symptoms including high cholesterol, blood pressure, and added fat in the torso. These risk factors, often the result of less physical activity in women, put women at risk for several chronic diseases including coronary artery disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. You can reduce this risk by exercising regularly, following the CDC guidelines for recommended activity each week.

    Weight Gain

    • Women are more likely than men to eat to cope with symptoms of stress leading to weight gain. While men are more likely to participate in sports or engage in exercise, women often cite lack of time or fatigue as a reason not to engage in these activities. Other factors that may influence a woman’s decision not to exercise may include lack of confidence in their ability to exercise, or lack of willpower because women learn patterns in childhood that influence exercise and confidence. Research suggests that around the ages of five and six, these patterns set in, where women learn more restrictive physical activity patterns. This sets women up for a lifetime of less physical activity and greater weight gain, causing them to potentially suffer more in life.