Why Men Lose Weight Faster Than Women (Backed by Science)
- Todd Cheek
- Sep 7
- 2 min read
I often get asked from women why is it so much harder to drop the weight while their husbands weight just falls off. If you have been asking this question, let's take a few minutes to break it all down.
For starters, biology, hormones, and metabolism all play a role — and understanding these differences can help women create smarter, more effective weight-loss strategies.
1. Resting Metabolism
Men naturally burn more calories at rest because they typically carry more lean muscle mass. In fact, studies show men have a 10–15% higher resting metabolic rate compared to women of the same age and weight. Muscle is metabolically active tissue, which means the more you have, the more calories you burn — even while sleeping.
2. Hormonal Differences
Hormones greatly influence weight.
Estrogen (dominant in women) encourages fat storage, particularly around the hips and thighs.
Testosterone (higher in men) supports muscle growth and helps keep metabolism running strong.This hormonal balance means men are biologically better equipped for faster fat loss.
3. Fat Storage Patterns
Women’s bodies are designed to store fat for fertility and childbearing. On average, women carry 6–11% more body fat than men, even at a healthy weight. Men, however, tend to store fat around the abdomen, which is easier to burn off compared to the “stubborn fat” women store in the hips, thighs, and buttocks.
4. Exercise and Energy Expenditure
When exercising, men often burn more calories simply because they weigh more and have greater muscle density. For example, during a 30-minute jog, a man may burn 350 calories while a woman burns closer to 250 — even at the same pace.
5. Life Stages and Metabolism
Women face unique challenges during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause. These hormonal shifts can slow metabolism and make weight loss more difficult over time.
The Takeaway: Yes, men may have a biological advantage, but women can absolutely achieve long-term weight loss by working with their bodies instead of against them. Building lean muscle, prioritizing protein, and supporting hormone balance are key steps in leveling the playing field.
Want to get started right now? Don’t wait another year, another Monday, or another “perfect time.” Your future self will thank you for taking action today. Download my free guide, “25 Foods to Stop Eating After 50” — and discover the simple nutrition changes that make weight loss after 50 not just possible, but sustainable.
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