Physical Activity Crucial for Women's Cardiovascular Health in Midlife

Strategic Insights -

Women's risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) increases sharply during midlife, and physical activity (PA) plays a critical role in mitigating this risk. A recent study conducted by researchers at Rowan University examined the effectiveness of a PA coaching program paired with social support from PA partners. The study found that women in midlife with at least one risk factor for CVD who participated in the 8-week intervention showed significant improvements in physical activity levels and social support.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study targeted women in midlife (40-65 years) with at least one risk factor for CVD, including hypertension.
  • Physical activity (PA) coaching was paired with social support from PA partners to enhance participants' engagement and motivation.
  • The 8-week intervention consisted of six weekly sessions with a PA coach, three joint meetings with the PA partner, and daily ambulatory assessment and postintervention surveys.
  • Recruitment, treatment adherence, daily assessment compliance, and retention all met or exceeded prespecified benchmarks, indicating a successful trial.
  • The study found high acceptability of the intervention, with women rating the PA-specific social support as high as 4.2/5 and showing meaningful increases in social support ratings.
  • The study suggests that larger-scale testing of the PA coaching program with daily assessment could reveal mechanistic pathways linking social support to PA in daily life.

Statistics:

  • 62 participants were included in the study, with a mean age of 52.6 years and a mean BMI of 32.6 kg/m2.
  • The study had a retention rate of 100%, with daily assessment compliance of 84% and treatment adherence of 97%.
  • 20% of participants reported a household income of less than $2,000 per year, indicating a strong representation from hard-to-reach groups.
  • The study underwent peer review and was published in the journal Health Psychology.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Studies from Rowan University Have Provided New Information about Cardiovascular Diseases and Conditions (Physical Activity Partners for Women With Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Proof-of-concept Trial With Daily Assessment). Health & Medicine Week. October 24, 2025; p 7364.
  • Health Psychology. Physical Activity Partners for Women With Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Proof-of-concept Trial With Daily Assessment.