Not necessarily. This method of finding the right exercise intensity is called the Talk Test. The Talk Test can be used safely and effectively to find the right level of exercise by all adults. Research comparing types of exercise, for example walking versus biking, using the Talk Test has been done on men and women.

So far there's nothing to show that there's a difference between men and women using this test. They both use about the same amount of breath at the same levels of exercise intensity.

The real issue may have more to do with differences in age and health condition. More studies are needed to compare these variables.