Although both sexes may eat right and hit the gym in equal measure, a woman may find herself working harder to lose that last five pounds than her male counterpart. Because of differences in physiology and hormones, men tend to lose weight overall, and especially belly fat, more easily than women do.

In general, men’s bodies have more muscle mass than women’s. Because regular workouts, particularly strength training, builds muscle and burns fat, men have less fat to lose and drop it more quickly. Women’s bodies hold more fat, especially in the belly, hips and thighs, so building muscle in these areas can take more time and require more intense workouts.

Hormones

Hormonal differences can also account for differences in fat loss between the sexes. The ebb and flow of estrogen, progesterone and other hormones responsible for menstruation and pregnancy can also affect rates of weight loss. Women may experience pre-menstrual bloating and weight gain, and these hormonal shifts can also cause changes in appetite and increase cravings for certain foods.

Hormone-based drugs such as birth control pills or estrogen supplements at menopause can also cause weight fluctuations that compromise even the most dedicated exercise routine. And, as women move into middle age and beyond, the metabolism slows. As hormones decline after menopause, many women find themselves with stubborn extra weight, especially around the middle. Although men also gain extra weight with age, the predominance of muscle in the male body makes this weight easier to lose with a regular exercise regimen.

Response to Exercise

Recent research also demonstrates that men and women respond differently to exercise in significant ways. Studies on target heart rate calculations suggest that women’s target heart rates are actually lower than men’s, although these rates are determined on a male model. Likewise, women’s metabolic rates differ from men’s. Women may not burn calories at the same rate that men do, so that it’s possible for a man to work out, gulp a whole pizza and wash it down with beer and never gain a pound.

With regular exercise and a healthy diet, almost anyone can lose weight and build muscle. But thanks to differences in muscle mass, metabolism and hormones, men and women may not accomplish this with equal ease. Becoming aware of the ways in which men and women respond to exercise, and the physiological factors that affect weight loss, can reduce frustration and help with planning a weight loss program that gets results.

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