HEALTH

 

Sun’s out, guns out! If you are feeling a bit intimidated on the beach this summer by all those boys with biceps, we are here to let you know they might not be as impressive as they seem. Working out for men and women is totally different, and it’s important to know that your hard work in the gym is quite an achievement. Here are a few differences between guys and girls when it comes to getting (and staying) fit.

Our bodies aren't built the same.
In general, men have a bigger frame than women. As a result of this, they have a larger heart and set of lungs. This makes cardio a bit easier because the body is pushing out more blood carrying oxygen per beat. In addition, men also have bigger and stronger bones, which help support balance, posture, muscle growth and overall well-being.

We have estrogen.
The male hormone, testosterone, is responsible for naturally giving men the upper hand when it comes to producing muscle. This hormone creates a leaner and more muscular structure, while estrogen, which is produced in women, focuses on other aspects of shaping a woman’s physique. Estrogen promotes fat in the body, giving women on average 6-11 percent more body fat. This also makes it easier for women to gain weight and harder for them to lose it.

It's easier for guys to see results.
Studies show that women need to partake in 20 percent more exercise than men to see the same results and that exercise is not the only thing that women need to consider when trying to lose weight or tone up. Unlike most men, women are far less likely to see the physical results of their workout without amending their dietary habits.

But we're still awesome!
Although it might feel like your body is pitted against you, it is actually incredible in different ways. The body fat that your body stores helps when you're ready to have children and women are also shown to be naturally more flexible and have far more muscular lower bodies. So when your workout is getting you down, just remember how valuable the exercise you’re doing truly is.

What do you think about these facts? Share your thoughts in the comments! 

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We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.

by Erin Farrugia | 6/1/2017