Why are men so much stronger than women? Are athletic competitions fairly divided now based on science or by societies old view on women?

Question

I know men are stronger than women and have much more muscle, but I was hoping someone could break down for me why and how this happens as normally up until puberty we are the same.

Also when women have a handicap or are separated from men in competitions, I hear a lot of complaining about equality and how it’s “easier” for women, who just lack technique, not muscle. I always thought these national competitions/olympic sports were separated for a reason backed up by science. Would love to hear how it works and how they decide handicaps or percentages in male vs female sports.

In: Biology

Answer 1

In puberty the male gonads start pumping out testosterone. This testosterone has a profound effect on the male physique: deeper voice, more facial hair, more body hair, and above all more muscle mass.