Study Finds 2 Hours of Strength Training Cuts Women's Heart Attack Risk 44%
Updated
Updated · dailybeirut.com · Jul 9
Study Finds 2 Hours of Strength Training Cuts Women's Heart Attack Risk 44%
2 articles · Updated · dailybeirut.com · Jul 9
Summary
Women who did at least two hours of resistance training a week had a 44% lower heart attack risk and a 20% lower risk of major cardiovascular events than nonparticipants.
117,000 women were followed for an average 14.5 years, and the strongest protection appeared in those who paired strength work with recommended aerobic exercise and less than two hours of daily TV time.
Researchers said resistance training may lower coronary risk by preserving muscle mass, improving blood sugar and lipid metabolism, boosting blood flow and helping stabilize arterial plaque.
The study, published June 17 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, found no similar link to lower stroke risk, suggesting strength training is one part of broader heart-health prevention.
Do smaller arteries mean strength training gives women unique heart protection that men don't get?
How can exercise build arterial plaque yet still slash a woman's heart attack risk by 44%?
Beyond the gym, what societal barriers stop women from accessing these life-saving health benefits?
Strength Training Slashes Heart Disease Risk for Women: Key Findings from the 2026 Landmark Study
Overview
A major study published in June 2026 revealed that strength training offers significant benefits for women's heart health. The research found that resistance training can greatly reduce the risk of major heart disease for active women, highlighting the importance of adding strength-building exercises to fitness routines. These benefits go beyond what aerobic exercise alone can provide, as strength training improves muscle strength, metabolic health, and body composition. By helping regulate glucose and fat metabolism, strength training supports long-term cardiovascular well-being. These findings are expected to shape public health guidelines and encourage more women to adopt strength training for a healthier heart.