Strength Training and Muscle Density Reduce Heart Attack Risk

Recent research shows that both resistance exercise and higher muscle density are associated with a lower risk of major cardiovascular disease. A large prospective analysis of 117,025 women from the Nurses' Health Study found that women who performed two or more hours of strength training per week reduced their risk of major heart disease by 20% and heart attacks by 44% compared with those who did none. The benefit persisted even when participants also met aerobic‑activity guidelines.

A separate imaging study of 1,722 patients, mostly in their 50s and examined for chest pain, identified that greater density of chest and back muscles—measured as higher “brightness” on CT scans—correlated with a 31% lower odds of heart attack and a 39% lower risk of death over ten years. Researchers suggest that muscle composition, reflecting physical activity, may serve as a novel marker for cardiovascular health.

Both studies highlight the importance of incorporating strength‑building activities into lifestyle recommendations for cardiovascular disease prevention.