Let’s just say it: yes, men and women are different regarding physical strength—but the story doesn’t end with bench press numbers and biceps the size of small children. It’s way more complex than that.
On average, men have about 26 pounds more skeletal muscle mass than women, and around 40% more upper-body strength, according to research published in the Journal of Applied Physiology. Women are closer in lower-body strength, as they trail by about 25%. But wait—before the guys start flexing and the ladies roll their eyes, science says women have more endurance and are better at going the distance. A study done in 2015, “Performance Differences Between Male and Female Athletes in Ultramarathon Running: Influence of Distance and Age” found that the performance gap decreases between men and women in ultra-endurance events.
We need to admit that biologically, testosterone gives men the edge in muscle development and density. But estrogen, which women produce in greater quantities, aids in fat metabolism, joint flexibility, and (most importantly for avoiding injury) quicker muscle recovery. Ever wonder why your mom could haul six grocery bags on one arm, yell at you about your report card, and make dinner without breaking a sweat? That’s estrogen. And rage-fueled multitasking.
Although men may have stronger grips (literally—studies show men’s grip strength averages 72.6 lbs vs. women’s 44 lbs), women possess the determination not to give up until they get the task done.
When it comes to the gym, the differences are almost sitcom material. Men are more likely to go straight for the weights, while women often take spinning or yoga classes. While women may not be heard grunting as they try to lift a 300 lb weight, women tend to have better form, stick to consistent routines, and get fewer injuries. Why? Because they read the instructions.
However, women are catching up. Thanks to the rise of women in sports, CrossFit, and powerlifting, strength training is no longer just for dudes. In 2023, Tamara Walcott broke the women’s world record by deadlifting over 641 pounds. That’s like lifting a grand piano while maintaining perfect posture.
So yes, men might have a natural edge in brute strength, but if you’ve ever tried arguing with a woman who just cleaned the whole house after working a 9-hour shift, you already know who’s winning.
In the end, maybe we should stop arguing about who’s stronger and just ask a woman to open the pickle jar—she might not get it done by using her bare hands, but she’ll get it done. With flair.
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