We all knew exercise was good for our health, but we’re now finding out hitting the pavement or the gym is actually even better for us women than it is for men.

An article in the August issue of Journal of Lipid Research talked about the results of a long-term study of more than 8,700 men and women ages 45-64, which provided race- and gender-specific data on the cholesterol effects of physical activity.

The study showed that women, particularly black women, experience greater benefits as a result of exercise than men. At least an extra half hour of moderate activity per week resulted in higher levels of "good" HDL cholesterol for all, but the "bad" LDL cholesterol levels were significantly decreased in women, particularly menopausal and black women. Just one more reason to get off that couch and go for a walk. Your heart will thank you!