Socio-cultural

A complex interaction of social and cultural factors can impact the decision to participate in sport.
Although social attitudes toward participation by women and girls in sport activities have changed dramatically over time, the predominant social view of sport is still a male oriented and dominated activity. 32, 34, 58, 120
In general, very few physical differences exist between boys and girls prior to puberty, which typically begins between the ages of 9 and 11. 59, 60 However, research indicates that from as young as seven years of age, girls are already reporting less positive attitudes towards, and enjoyment of, physical activity and sport. They also feel less competent and confident in their ability to take part. 16 As girls mature these attitudes and experiences appear to become more entrenched. 34
Some key socio-cultural barriers to sport and physical activity for women and girls include:  
Access barriers (language, facilities, transport, cost) 28, 33, 118 
Cultural barriers (dress standards, gender roles/expectations) 1, 11, 61, 62, 63, 118 
Family/caring responsibilities 25 
Fewer role models 33, 118 
The complex interaction of factors—social, cultural, and biological—that impact upon girls’ decision to participate in sport, heightens the risk of missing out on the many benefits sports can offer across the life course. 18 But parental, family, and social support have been shown to help improve long-term participation outcomes. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 118
Gender-related barriers can also have additional impact in certain demographic groups, including:  
Culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) 61, 118 
First Nations 19, 62, 64 
Those with disability 65, 66 
Mature-aged women 67, 68
Resources and reading 
Making #HERstory: Girls who play on boys’ teams and supporting the lone girl in sport, opens in a new tab, Jennifer Coletti, SIRC blog, (20 October 2021). For my master’s thesis, I explored the experiences of lone girls in team sports. I interviewed 14 individuals who had participated in sport as a lone girl and asked them about their experiences. In this blog, I share my findings and propose ways that coaches and organizations can enhance the sport environment for lone girls. Regardless of their motives for competing, lone girls expressed unique challenges to their sport participation. These challenges spanned physical and social spaces, leaving many girls to feel both left out and singled out because of their gender. Lone girls also described feeling pressure to perform, despite facing limited opportunities for advancement in sport.
Gender equality in sport needs to start at the clubhouse, opens in a new tab, Victoria University, (18 November 2020). Increasing participation alone isn't enough to shift traditional gender relations in sports that have traditionally privileged men, a new study led by Victoria University and Monash University shows. The study found women and girls felt devalued within sports clubs through ongoing micro-practices including difficulties gaining access to quality facilities, poorer training times, less recognition on club’s social media, and lower recognition of their achievements and successes.
Why do more girls quit sports than boys?, opens in a new tab David Benay, Active for Life, (28 August 2020). By their late teens, one in 3 girls who used to play sports has quit, compared to just one in 10 boys. This gender gap persists past the teen years and continues into adulthood.
Five ways to make gyms and swimming pools more accessible to women, opens in a new tab, Sport England, (24 August 2020). This Girl Can campaign has published the results of a new survey which showed that, out of those women who had returned to gyms and pools, as many as 87% felt safe with the anti-coronavirus (Covid-19) measures in place. To help encourage more women to go back, especially important given how gym settings support women to be active, the This Girl Can community has set out a list of ideas that would further help to combat concerns around feeling intimidated or judged (51%) or feeling uncomfortable in their swimwear (73%). The top five ideas were: A discreet offer from staff to help with equipment (48%)
A code of conduct in the weights room like time limits and re-racking heavy weights after use (36%)
Hooks by the pool to hang towels to restrict time walking in swimming costume (44%)
Women’s only areas/dedicated swim time for women (36%)
Fewer full-length mirrors (21%).
#FITSPO a flop at inspiring women to get active: New This Girl Can campaign focuses on the feeling not the scales, opens in a new tab, VicHealth , (1 March 2020). While it might be popular on Instagram, new research from health promotion foundation VicHealth has found most Victorian women are turned off exercise by images of taut and toned #FITSPO influencers. Key findings from a survey of over 1000 Victorian women found that around two-thirds of women (66%) aren’t motivated by #FITSPO images of women on Instagram. Over three-quarters of women find seeing women of all different body shapes getting active motivating. A third of women feel bad or inadequate about their own bodies and fitness when they see #FITSPO images on Instagram. Almost 80% of women want to see more women with a range of body shapes included in physical activity advertising.
Time to tackle the physical activity gender gap, opens in a new tab, The Lancet Public Health editorial, (22 July 2019). The physical activity gap between boys and girls begins early. Children's exposure to narrow gender norms around boys versus girls activities and a failure to adapt the types of sports offered can instil this lack of enjoyment and body confidence, and in turn, shape attitudes to physical activity into adulthood. Indeed, many women are put off by certain physical activities over concerns about stereotypes, because of insecurities around body image, or feeling constrained by cultural acceptability. Women and girls' sport generally receives less investment at the grassroots level—including access to equipment, transport, and coaching and to safe and welcoming facilities. Women still often play the lead role in childcare and managing households—for many, in addition to paid work—which means they generally have less leisure time.
Busy mums encouraged to prioritise their own activity levels, opens in a new tab, Sport England, (17 June 2019). A survey conducted by Opinium showed that 61% of mums would feel guilty about taking time to exercise. It also showed that a lack of time is keeping busy mums from exercising, with 30% reporting to have less than an hour free to themselves per day. However, almost 70% of mothers think it is important for their children to see them exercising. Outside of work, mothers said they were most likely to prioritise tasks revolving around family, such as spending time with them, housework and cooking, but only 17% of the 1,006 respondents prioritised their own exercise.
Unleashing the Value of Women’s Sport Fact sheet, NSW Office of Sport, (2017). Growing sport for girls makes good business sense. It also helps address the gender imbalance in sport participation and contributes to improving health, social and equality issues.
Sportswomen’s Apparel Around the World: uniformly discussed, opens in a new tab, Linda K Fuller (ed.), Springer, (2021). This volume presents a collection of essays that explore the relationship between sporting clothing and gender. Drawing on uniform and sports apparel as a means of exploring the socio-sexual politics of the contemporary world, the contributions analyse the historical, political-economic, socio-cultural and sport-specific dimensions of gendered clothing in sport.
Developing Sport for Women and Girls, opens in a new tab, Emma Sherry, Katie Rowe, Routledge, (2020). Provides critical analysis of contemporary sport development, from high performance pathways to engaging diverse communities to the use of sport to empower women and girls. Each chapter explores various contexts of sport development and sport for development theory with a specific focus on women and girls. It covers key topics such as health, education, sexual orientation and participation across the life course, and features international case studies in every chapter. [available from the Clearinghouse for Sport, GV709.D47 2020]
Improving women’s physical activity in the City of Casey: Breaking down barriers using co-design participatory research, opens in a new tab, Meghan Casey, Rochelle Eime, Joanne Porter, Report to Active Communities, City of Casey, PASI, Federation University, (2024). This research project actively engaged culturally diverse women to identify barriers and design physical activity programs in the City of Casey. Women's perspectives, needs and preferences were central to the (re)development of community programs. It provides evidence-based information for council decision-making to strategically invest in ways that improve women’s physical activity and contribute to their health and wellbeing. Some key highlights include: On average women who participated in the co-design workshops and were surveyed on how the program impacted their physical activity were satisfied with the range of physical activity offerings and reported improving their physical health including increasing their physical activity by 34 minutes/week.
Things that helped women in the focus groups get active: Inclusion of children / childminding; activities that align with cultural identity; bringing friends (participating in a group); accessible (location and cost); and flexible commitments.
What else is needed: Communication that addresses women's hesitation to attend (e.g. photos or videos of the program might address the feeling that 'I don't know what it's going to look like, and that makes me apprehensive...). Help to address misconceptions about available programs and what council provides, as well as increasing women's confidence to participate, especially health and injury concerns.
Recommendations for how co-design can be used to inform program delivery and sustainability.
The Commonwealth Guide to Advancing Development through Sport, opens in a new tab, Kay T and Dudfield O, Commonwealth Secretariat in collaboration with the Commonwealth Advisory Body on Sport, (2013). Chapter 7 ‘Advancing Gender Equality through Sport’ identifies policy priorities for governments and states that gender equality underpins major development goals, including ensuring education for all, improving child and maternal health and combating disease. There is a well-established tradition of using sport to address issues of empowerment for girls and women, and sport can act as a powerful mechanism to challenge social attitudes that legitimise unequal female treatment.
The case for change, opens in a new tab, Sport New Zealand, (2018). This provides an overview of research illustrating the 'case for change' for women and girls in sport. The focus areas are: leadership; participation; and value and visibility. Highlights NZ research relating to barriers to participation are significantly higher for females compared to males. Young women and girls want: to have fun and socialise; to feel safe to participate; not to feel judged; to keep fit and maintain my weight; to feel confident doing what they’re doing; activities to fit around their other commitments.
The volunteer capacity of community sports clubs to support women and girls in sport, opens in a new tab, Change Our Game, (2023). The aim of this research project was to investigate community sports clubs’ volunteer capacity - including management, retention and recruitment - to engage women and girls in participating and volunteering in community sport. The insights from this research can help sports organisations and local clubs identify areas of improvement in growing volunteer capacity to support women and girls’ participation in community-level sport. Some key findings include: Supportive behaviours from men at clubs (including players) are important in enabling women to play sport, such as men taking on roles on game day (e.g. scoring or running the canteen).
There are varied attitudes of club volunteers towards supporting opportunities for women and girls to play sport.
Parents play an important role in supporting girls to play sport, in particular dads with daughters, who seemed enthused to fill volunteer roles for girls’ teams, to enable opportunities for girls
Some clubs display deep-rooted gender stereotypes, where boys’ player pathways are perceived to be more important than girls’ pathways.
Inequities in resourcing teams, for example clubs’ focus on the category with the highest number of teams (i.e. having more men’s/boys teams).
To support women and girls community sports clubs should consider actions such as: Addressing inequalities in team resourcing, developing specific strategies to increase women in volunteer roles, have policies supporting women in leadership roles in the club, support younger women to build confidence and capability, create a welcoming and inclusive club culture.
State of Play Survey 2022-23, opens in a new tab, Change our Game, Victorian Government, (June 2023). Between October and November 2022, more than 670 Victorians answered questions on a range of topics relating to gender equality in sport, including values and behaviour in community sport, elite sport, sports media and coverage, leadership opportunities and perceptions, and experiences working and volunteering in sport. The State of Play Survey revealed that overall, while there are some positive attitudes towards women and girls in sport and their right to equal opportunities and access, change is still required in terms of underlying attitudes and behaviours. Consistently throughout the survey, men were less likely than women to perceive gender inequality in various aspects of sport. Some of the key insights were: Only 27% believe women are treated fairly and not disadvantaged in any sport.
More than 50% of people who play community sport have experienced or seen gender imbalance (56%) sexist language and jokes (55%).
Women working or volunteering in sport were 13% less likely than men to feel comfortable voicing their opinion, and 8% less likely to feel that their opinions were valued.
28% of women have considered leaving their club due to inequitable treatment.
Women are 2.5x more likely to report feeling unwelcome at their sporting club compared to men.
Sport, stereotypes and stolen dreams: Why girls still feel they don’t belong in sport, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, (March 2023). Report found that girls are starting out surrounded by expectations that will limit their enjoyment of and participation in sport and physical activity. Sport can give girls and women resilience, courage and self-belief. We also know that gender stereotypes hold girls and women back from sport, and in life. In this study we explored where gender stereotyping begins so we can challenge and inspire to create lasting change for women and girls in sport and society.
Reframing Sport for Teenage Girls: Tackling Teenage Disengagement, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, (March 2022). Too many girls are disengaging from sport and exercise in their teens. This is huge compared to boys – a significant missed opportunity. An underlying narrative prevails; that girls are not as competitive; that sport is not important for girls; that they will never be as good at it compared to boys; that sport can be at odds with femininity. Add to that the harassment and unwanted attention teenage girls are subject to when exercising and quite simply, taking part becomes a burden, instead of bringing freedom and joy. Self-belief, capability and body image concerns can be significant issues for all girls. Our report highlights that complex barriers and deep-rooted negative attitudes are affecting enjoyment:Feel judged (61%)
Lack self belief (50%)
Pressures of schoolwork (41%)
Don’t feel safe exercising outside (38%)
Victorian participation in organised sports, opens in a new tab, VicHealth, Federation University, Victoria University, Sport and Recreation Spartial , (February 2022). The report illustrates participation across age, sex and location in 2020 and compares this with participation in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 in Victorian club-based sport. In it's sixth year, the report combines data from Victorian State Sporting Associations (SSAs) for 10 major sports: Australian football, basketball, cricket, football (soccer), gymnastics, hockey, netball, sailing, swimming and tennis. During COVID-19 restrictions women were more impacted than males, by having competing demands of working from home, home schooling children, caring for young children and other family members as well as other home duties and commitments. Boys have historically been provided greater opportunities than girls to play sport. Further, women are likely to prioritise their children’s participation in sport over their own. This is because many mothers feel guilty about themselves returning to play sport as they juggle with the expectations of motherhood. These findings confirm the need for continued bespoke strategies enabling women and girls to participate in sport with a specific focus on retention of participants.
In the Game: Enabling Muslim girls to play sport and be active, opens in a new tab, Boz, T, Halilovich, H, La Trobe University, GippSport, Victorian Government: Change our Game, (2022). The experiences of Muslim girls and women participating in sport and physical activity are diverse, and can be influenced by a range of factors, including social, cultural, religious and economic factors. This summary outlines key findings from research that examined barriers to participation in sport and physical activity by Muslim girls, and highlights opportunities and solutions to overcoming these barriers. Some of the key barriers and challenges for Muslim girls in playing sport identified through this research include: Experiences of social exclusion and feeling like they don't belong.
Lack of representation of Muslim women and girls in sport, contributes to the idea that they do not belong.
Racism and discrimination experienced by some.
The hijab worn by women and girls makes them visible targets for overt and covert forms of racism and micro-aggression.
The dominant presence of alcohol in the sports field and at the sporting club impacted some, deciding to avoid those environments, including social activities.
Some parents place a priority on academic studies for their daughters.
Lack of options or flexibility in sporting uniforms, particularly in relation to girls wearing the hijab.
Lack of girls' sport teams in the local area.
Parental attitudes were barriers to some girls’ participation in sport.
Cost of membership, uniforms, equipment and transport.
Men as Allies: Supporting women and girls in community sport, opens in a new tab, Randle, E., Harris, M, Marshall, S., et al., La Trobe University, GippSport, Victorian Government: Change our Game, (2022). The sporting community is working hard to improve gender equality. Men, because of their power, influence and positions, have an important role as allies in levelling the playing field for women and girls. An ally is any man willing to advocate for, and speak up in support of, women and girls; even though they may personally benefit from existing gender inequality. This research provides practical tools to support men to be allies for gender equality in all aspects of community sport. When men are allies, they will: Challenge gender stereotypes and bias within sporting clubs
Be positive role models for other men and boys
Help lead change, particularly as men often hold the power, influence and decision making in community sport
Be trusted messengers around gender equality, including to other men
Share and strengthen advocacy for gender equality, supporting women who do important work within community clubs.
Inspiring Women to be Active During Midlife and Menopause, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, (May 2021). Within this new research, we examined every aspect of women’s lives over a five-month period to fully understand their experiences of menopause and physical activity and uncover the barriers that women experience to being active throughout midlife and menopause. We focused specifically on women in lower socioeconomic groups because we know they face additional barriers and are less likely to be active, and spoke exclusively to inactive women who had either lapsed from being active previously or had never enjoyed being active. Five principles to inspire women to be active in midlife: Endless Possibilities – Expand perceptions and opportunities for being active.
Judgement-Free Zone – Welcoming and supportive environment.
Support Network – Offer built-in social support.
Expand the Image of What Sporty Means – Inspiring, relatable role models.
Make It Relevant – Reference specific, relevant benefits.
Gender Diversity in Sport and its impact on governance, infrastructure, practice and participation in Scotland, opens in a new tab, Jane Dennehy, Observatory for Sport n Scotland, (June 2020). Practices prevail in society and more specfically in sport which are opaque and continue to reproduce gender inequalities. This paper seeks to explore gender as a topic to advocate that greater knowledge and understanding is required to ensure the rhetoric of equality and diversity is challenged to support robust and sustainable action on gender in Scottish sport from community to national sport.
Keeping Girls in the Game: Factors that Influence Sport Participation, opens in a new tab, Zarrett, N., Veliz, P.T., and Sabo, D. Women’s Sports Foundation, (2020). This report explores how key characteristics of youth (intrapersonal), their social influences (e.g., interpersonal parent and peer factors), and experiences within the sport setting may vary by gender, age, race/ethnicity, family socioeconomic background, and region. The survey was administered to a nationally representative sample of American boys and girls (N=3,041) between the ages of 7-17 and their parents (N=3,041) to inquire about child‑related, sport-related, and systemic factors expected to influence youth access, experiences, and motivations for initial participation (entrance) and sustained/continued participation in sport. Key findings included: Disparities persist; Parents play multiple roles in supporting or hindering their girls' participation in sport; gender stereotypes in sport prevail; importance of role models, "if you can see it, you can be it"; sport can help build positive body image; coaches shape the sport experience; some girls live for competition, and some girls are in it for the fun; cost, transportation, and lack of access keep youth out; maintianing a love of sport (overcoming competing interests) is key to continued participation; and, there is a need to educate parents about the academic benefits of participation.
She Belongs: Building Social Connection for Lasting Participation in Sport, opens in a new tab, Vanessa Wallace, Canadian Women and Sport, (2020). When a girl chooses to play sports, what she will gain goes far beyond kicking a ball, learning a new stroke, or crossing a finish line. Through positive sport experiences, girls are more likely to reap the benefits of sport participation and grow into confident and motivated leaders. Creating a positive social environment that intentionally fosters a sense of belonging is integral to the retention of girls in sport and physical activity. For many boys, good performance creates a stronger sense of social belonging. In contrast, for many girls, feeling a strong sense of social belonging will enhance their performance. This resource is designed for coaches who are ready to intentionally support equitable sport. She Belongs offers practical recommendations to create social connection and better engage girls in the Learn to Train and Train to Train stages of the Long-Term Development in Sport and Physical Activity Framework (LTD).
Reframing Sport for Teenage Girls: Building strong foundations for their futures, opens in a new tab,  Women in Sport  , (Apirl 2019). Funded by Sport England, this research provides evidence supporting the need to reframe sport and physical activity as something that girls value and perceive to enhance their lives. It includes 8 Principles of Success to support organisations to bridge the ‘relevance gap’ in sport for girls and ensure it has a more meaningful place in their lives. A toolkit, opens in a new tab to help organisations implement the principles is also available.
Active Lives Children and Young People Survey: attitudes towards sport and physical activity academic year 2017/18, opens in a new tab,  Sport England  , (March 2019). More than 130,000 children and young people were surveyed in the academic year 2017-18, with participation figures published in December. This new analysis has identified five key findings that give us further insight into the attitudes of children and young people towards sport and physical activity. One of the key findings of the report is that enjoyment is the biggest driver of activity levels. Despite the majority of children (68%) understanding that sport and activity is good for them, understanding had the least impact on activity levels. However, girls are less likely to say they enjoy or feel confident about doing sport and physical activity (58% of boys enjoy it, compared to 43% of girls and 47% of boys feel confident, compared to 31% of girls). Among children aged 5 to 7 years, boys are more likely to love playing sport, while girls are more likely to love being active.
Coaching through a Gender Lens: Maximizing Girls’ Play and Potential, opens in a new tab, Zarrett, N., Cooky, C., Veliz, P.T., Women’s Sports Foundation, (2018). The report indicates a number of positive ways parents, coaches, and programs are meeting the needs of girl athletes. More can be done to help address the challenges of recruiting and retaining girls in sport.
Puberty & Sport: An Invisible Stage, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, (2018). Puberty is a confusing time of significant physical, emotional and social change for girls, which they feel unprepared to deal with due to a lack of education.
During this transition to adulthood, girls can form negative attitudes towards sport due to parents being less engaged, increased studying and pressure to perform well at school, a desire for new, more mature experiences and wanting to be accepted and acceptable to peers.
Women and Girls in Sport, Active Recreation and Physical activity - A Participation Review, opens in a new tab, Reece, LJ., Foley, BC., McInerney, C., et.al.,  SPRINTER Group, University of Sydney, (2017). The purpose of this report is to provide strategic guidance for increasing participation in women and girls across the life course, in sport, active recreation and physical activity. This encapsulates all-encompassing movement that is delivered through the sport and active recreation sector. Critically though, no single domain, policy or program will, in isolation, deliver sufficiently meaningful increases in participation at the population level; a comprehensive, multifaceted and multisector approach is necessary.
Women in Sport: Fuelling a Lifetime of Participation, opens in a new tab, Canadian Women and Sport, Dairy Farmers of Canada, (2016). An extensive and important resources for anyone looking to understand the status of women and girls in the Canadian sport system. Key challenges highlighted in the report include: a sharper decline in girls’ participation rates during adolescence than boys’; high costs to participate and few perceived financial opportunities for a career as a female athlete; a lack of prominent role models and quality media coverage; and a need for coaches who can support positive sport experiences for girls. With recommendations for system, community and individual level change, there’s a part for everyone to play in improving the Canadian sport landscape for women and girls.
Go where women are: Insight on engaging women and girls in sport and exercise, opens in a new tab, Sport England, (June 2015). This review explores our current understanding of what women want from sport and exercise programs; their relevant motivations, barriers, and triggers that prompt them into being more active. This review also identifies what this means for sports and exercise activities and initiatives, so that program deliverers can adjust to the needs of women and girls. Seven key principles for program providers are discussed: (1) change the offer to suit the women being targeted, listen to marketing and customer experiences of women; (2) don’t just talk about sport, consider how to present and explain the intended experience; (3) differentiate sport from other interests by promoting (not preaching) the benefits; (4) make sport the ‘norm’ for women of all ages, sizes, and cultural backgrounds by celebrating it; (5) use positivity and encouragement to drive action (rather than fear of the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle); (6) make it easy for women to act, address both practical and emotional barriers to participation; and (7) remember that people make or break the experience, ensure participants are properly supported along the way.
Her Life Depends On It III: Sport, Physical Activity, and the Health and Well-Being of American Girls and Women, opens in a new tab, Staurowsky, E. J., DeSousa, M. J., Miller, K. E., et al., Women’s Sports Foundation, (May 2015). A comprehensive report that reviews existing and emerging research on the links between participation in sport and physical activity and the health and wellbeing of American girls and women. As with the previous editions in 2004 and 2009, this study also confirms that physical activity and sport provides the critical foundation, in no small part, that allows girls and women to lead healthy, strong, and fulfilled lives. The report’s contents reflect the review of 1,500 studies, nearly 400 covered since the previous edition. While the report’s focus continues to be on U.S. girls and women, selected research findings that offer perspective regarding girls and women worldwide is also referenced in order to provide some perspective and context. The research compiled in this updated report strongly suggests that sport and physical activity provide conditions that help to ensure girls’ health and wellbeing (physical, social, psychological, and academic). The full report offers expansive documentation on the impact sport and physical activity has in the lives of girls and women. As a general trend, females across the board, regardless of age, race, or social class, are shortchanged in realizing the benefits of participation in physically challenging activities. However, females from lower economic backgrounds, females of color and females with disabilities suffer even greater negative health consequences as a result of less engagement in physical activity and less access to sport and physical fitness programs.
In general girls are still not afforded the degree of encouragement or opportunity extended to boys to participate in sports and fitness activities. Impediments to access remain an ongoing concern, complicated by recent trends that run counter to promoting physical activity, fitness, and sport programs in schools and communities. With schools cutting back on recess, a de-emphasis on physical education nationally, and persistent inequalities in school-sport programs and community-recreation programs, girls and women continue to encounter structural barriers to participation.
Despite more female athletes than ever before participating in the sport system, obstacles persist for women who wish to be leaders and decision-makers in the sport industry. The career aspirations of young women often collide with the gender barriers that exist in most male dominated sport organization.
Retaining the Membership of Women in Sport - 2013.pdf, Confederation of Australian Sport, report to the Government of Australia, Office for Sport, Department of Health, (December 2013). The multi-dimensional and highly demanding lifestyles of women in Australian society present many challenges and obstacles to the way women engage in sport during their adult life stages. This study provided insights from 1,121 Australian women 'masters sport' competitors on their motivations, challenges, needs and issues faced in their decision to continue playing sport. The study acquired data from female participants at four Australian Masters Games from 2007 to 2013. Online survey methods were used to collect data and 21 in-depth, face-to-face interviews with female competitors were conducted during the 14th Australian Masters Games held in Geelong in October 2013. A number of practical issues that would facilitate greater women’s participation in sport were identified in the survey: provision of child care facilities
increasing affordability – reducing costs of participation in sporting competition and events
scheduling of sporting competitions – insights were provided about the structure and timing of sporting competition
access and availability of local sporting facilities
access and availability of sports officials
promotion of local sporting opportunities – improved advertising and promotion.
Actively engaging women and girls: Addressing the psycho-social factors, opens in a new tab, Johnstone L and Millar S, Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity, (2012). Psycho-social factors relate to: autonomy and control; involvement and empowerment; social capital and social cohesion; social support and support networks; social diversity and tolerance; vulnerability and security; and role conflicts and imbalance. These psycho-social factors can either contribute to, or discourage, girls and women from sport and physical activity participation, depending upon the actions taken by parents, peers, coaches, educators, officials, and leaders. Factors identified in this report as enabling participation include: perceived and demonstrated value of the activity
positive perception of one’s own skills and ability
progress in the successful mastery and refinement of skill;
high self-esteem and positive perceptions of physical competence
positive self-perception of physical appearance
experiences that are enjoyable and satisfying
acceptance of one’s actual or perceived sex, gender identity and/or gender expression
acceptance of one’s socio-economic status, race, culture, disability
feelings of cohesion, belongingness, emotional support from peers and others
effective conflict resolution
a sense of security.
Muslim Women in Sport, opens in a new tab, Women’s Sport and Fitness Foundation and Sporting Equals, (2010). This report identifies perceived or real barriers and suggests how sporting organisations can become more inclusive for Muslim women. In general, Islam promotes good health and fitness and encourages both men and women to engage in physical activity to maintain healthy lifestyles. However, there are aspects of the religion which affect how sports can be practised by women. For example, their faith does not allow them to engage in mixed gender sports and the environment and dress code also requires consideration. Due to religious misinterpretations or simply a lack of awareness, many Muslim women face barriers to sports participation. For many, apprehension about taking part stems from a fear of discrimination or of facing negative attitudes from service providers in relation to their religious and cultural needs.
Exploring Images of the Future of Women Cyclists Using the Futures Triangle, opens in a new tab, Nur Anisah Abdullah, Azra Naimi, Journal of Futures Studies, Volume 27(3), pp.25-42, (2023). The objective of this study is to broaden the understanding of women’s cycling experiences, looking at motivation, challenges, and influences, and exploring and documenting the images of the future of a group of women cyclists with a view to using their vision to inform the design of a more inclusive space for cycling enthusiasts. Studies suggest that women cycle less because of the perception of physical risk and socio-cultural concerns and if they do cycle it is more for recreation than as a commute to work or place of study. The traditional sexual division of labour inhibits women’s participation in cycling as a means of transport. The wider gender inequalities in the division of time between women and men in relation to different roles assigned to them by society, such as spending time caring for and educating family members, and cooking and housework, duties that are expected to be filled by women, may prevent them from bicycle use. In addition, they more often travel with young children, which heightens the threat to safety posed by travel by bicycle.
Are gender-stereotyped attitudes and beliefs in fathers and daughters associated with girls’ perceived motor competence?, opens in a new tab India Dechrai, Emiliano Mazzoli, Lisa Hanna, et al., Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, (6 June 2022). This study aimed to examine the association between father and daughter gender-stereotyped attitudes/beliefs and girls’ PMC. Girls with more gender-stereotyped attitudes have lower motor skill perceptions, which may impact negatively on physical activity and sport participation. Future interventions aimed at reducing sociocultural gender stereotypes in children may improve girls’ motor skill perception and positively impact physical activity.
Teens’ dreams of becoming professional athletes: the gender gap in youths’ sports ambitions, opens in a new tab, Ingunn Marie Eriksen, Sport in Society, Volume 25(10), pp.1909-1923, (2022). In comparatively gender equal Norway, most boys and girls participate in sports at about equal rates. This apparent gender equality is investigated further: do young teens also profess equal ambitions of becoming professional athletes? Drawing on 81 interviews with 12- and 13-year-olds, the study suggest that the boys and girls make similar investments in sports, but there are clear gender differences in the ways they describe their future ambitions. The majority of the boys talk about wanting to become professional athletes and going ‘all in’, but very few of the girls do – the ambitious girls rather talk about skills development. The paper argues that cultural narratives thus shape young people’s self-understanding and ambitions, both boys and girls may suffer consequences of this: in a sports-internal logic, the girls may be given limited practical possibilities, resources and support – but boys may risk regret, disappointment and wasting time and resources.
Engaging Minority Girls in Organized Youth Sport in Norway: A Case Study of a Project That Worked, opens in a new tab, Siv Gjesdal, Susanna Hedenborg, Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, Volume 3, (December 2021). Sport participation has increasingly been recognized as a potentially important context for fostering social inclusion for minority youths. Yet across Europe, minority girls are participating in sport to a lesser degree than their majority counterparts. This study explored the reasons why a particular project aimed at recruiting minority girls to organized team sport succeeded in doing just that. A case study design was adopted to provide an in-depth analysis of how this project satisfied the basic psychological needs of minority girls. Nine girls, four parents, two coaches, and two project team members were interviewed about the project and sport participation in general. Two main themes were identified, a sense of being facilitated and inclusion in the sport environment. The former emphasized the importance of aligning the participation with the girls' cultural norms and values, particularly in the beginning. It also included practical issues such as finances, reminding us that participation in sport is not just a motivational issue. The latter focused on the importance of including the girls in the general sports program, regardless of their athletic abilities at the onset of their participation and creating a mastery environment. Moreover, by removing remediable differences between the minority and majority girls, such as having the right equipment, seemed important to fostering a sense of belonging in the sports club. Additionally, establishing meaningful relationships with coaches and majority counterparts seemed to be a major motivating factor.
Five-Year Changes in Community-Level Sport Participation, and the Role of Gender Strategies, opens in a new tab, Rochelle Eime, Melanie Charity, Jack Harvey, et al., Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, Volume 3, (October 2021). The number of women and girls playing sport is gradually increasing for the better. An important observation from our findings is that women and girls in particular are starting to play male-dominated sports. This suggests that barriers to their previous participation may largely have been related to hegemonic masculine club cultures within these sports—that these sports “weren't for girls to play.” Such attitudes (largely by men) and perceptions (by all genders) are starting to change and these changes are in line with significant sport policy strategies and investments focused on increasing participation for women and girls, including offering a wider range of participation opportunities and options, building female friendly infrastructure, and facilitating female sport leadership. Equal participation opportunities and equity in regard to leading in and benefiting from sport require multifaceted developments from both top-down and bottom-up approaches. Recommendations include ongoing strategic developments and investment, increased media attention for and exposure of female sport, social and cultural change in and around club environments, inclusive and welcoming clubs, leadership opportunities, government and community support. Furthermore, it is and important at all levels, that there is a presence and a voice for women and girls in sport.
Gender Relations, Gender Equity, and Community Sports Spaces, opens in a new tab, Ruth Jeanes, Ramòn Spaaij, Karen Farquharson, et al., Journal of Sport and Social Issues, Volume 45(6), pp.545-567, (2021). This study employs a spatial analysis to critically examine gender relations within an Australian football and netball community sports club that has sought to address gender inequity and promote the participation of women across the club. Notable changes included increased female representation in the club’s decision-making structures, growing numbers of female members, and the establishment of a women’s and girls’ football section. The findings reinforce that although a greater number of women and girls are participating in community sport, this alone is not significantly reshaping gender relations. Policies seeking to promote gender equity in sport need to enforce changes in club environments in addition to focusing on increasing women’s participation.
“Girls Aren’t Meant to Exercise”: Perceived Influences on Physical Activity among Adolescent Girls—The HERizon Project, opens in a new tab, Emma Cowley, Paula Watson, Lawrence Foweather, et al., Children, Volume 8(1), (2021). Adolescent girls are less active than boys, with approximately 10% of girls in Ireland and the United Kingdom meeting the minimum recommended daily physical activity (PA) guidelines. This study investigated factors perceived to influence PA among adolescent girls from low socioeconomic areas in order to inform the design of a future intervention (The HERizon Project). A total of 48 adolescent girls (13–18 years) from low socioeconomic areas of the United Kingdom and Ireland participated in focus groups (n = 8), to explore perspectives of physical activity and the influence of gender within this. Most girls enjoyed PA and were aware of its benefits. They identified both barriers and facilitators to PA at intrapersonal (fear of judgement and changing priorities WITH age), interpersonal (changing social pressures and support from others) and organizational (delivery of PE) levels. Gender inequality was a multilevel factor, crossing all socioecological levels. Although many adolescent girls enjoy PA, their experiences appear to be limited by a fear of judgement and an overarching sense of gender inequality. Future interventions, such as the HERizon Project, should address influences at intrapersonal, interpersonal and organizational levels to promote positive PA experiences for adolescent girls.
Girls Do Not Sweat: the Development of Gender Stereotypes in Physical Education in Primary School, opens in a new tab, Carolina Cárcamo, Amparo Moreno, Cristina del Barrio, Human Arenas, Volume 4, pp.196-217, (2021). Stereotypes about gender-appropriate behaviour play a key role in doing physical-sports activity. Based on the expectancy-value model, this study describes the gender beliefs of boys/girls regarding physical education. A total of 30 children (half-boys, half-girls) that were 4th- and 5th-year pupils (8–10 years) at two Colombian schools were interviewed using a semi-structured script focusing on open-ended questions. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed. The results suggest gender differences in boys/girls already in the 4th year with respect to their abilities and the value they put on physical education based on a wide range of gender stereotypes. Specifically, boys/girls see football as a men’s sport, while skating, handball and volleyball are perceived as women’s sports. Furthermore, boys/girls have a dominant gender narrative that makes femininity subordinate to masculinity, thereby encouraging binary gender beliefs and practices. These stereotypes are reflected in their choice of activities and in how they use the school facilities, educing in this way the opportunities of both boys/girls as far as physical-sports activity are concerned. We discuss the findings emphasizing their relation to education and sociocultural influences. The conclusions suggest the need to make boys and girls more aware about gender equality, make changes to the activities and to how the physical spaces are used and provide equal teaching and learning experiences to reduce a divide still present in physical-sports education.
More opportunities, same challenges: adolescent girls in sports that are traditionally constructed as masculine,, opens in a new tab Nadia Bevan, Claire Drummond, Liz Abery, et al., Sport, Education and Society, Volume 26(6), pp.592-605, (2021). The present study investigated adolescent girls’ experiences (N = 34, aged 13–17 years) in three sports that are traditionally constructed as masculine in Australia: football, cricket and Australian rules football. Through a sociological gendered lens, results from narrative inquiry indicated that adolescent girls are required to navigate gender constructs and sexuality stereotypes. Numerous inequities between girls and boys exist and are challenging to negotiate. The present findings suggest that social connectedness, mentors and same-sex role models assist girls to navigate their sport involvement. These findings provide a sound basis for future research to explore practical solutions to keep girls engaged in such sports.
The #MomsGotGame Campaign: What the Research Says About Mom’s Participation in Physical Activity and Sport, opens in a new tab, Veronica Allan, SIRC, (9 September 2020). The purpose of this document is to provide a summary of the evidence that underpinned the development of the #MomsGotGame campaign. To this end, a literature review focused on mother’s participation in physical activity in sport was conducted. The benefits of physical activity and sport participation cannot be understated. And while moms recognize the importance of physical activity for their health and wellbeing, they often prioritize the needs of their children, household, or employer above their own. Despite the fact that many moms want to participate in physical activity and sport, additional parenting duties and limited access to fitness facilities and organized activities (e.g., exercise classes, sports leagues) are creating additional challenges to being active. As such, resources and support provided through #MomsGotGame will consider the unique challenges and circumstances for mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. To address or overcome these barriers, messages and programs should focus on increasing positive attitudes about mom’s participation in physical activity and sport (e.g., self-compassion, encouragement from others) and reframing beliefs about mom’s social roles (e.g., shared household and childcare duties). The delivery of programs and messages using digital technologies (e.g., mobile apps) represents another promising avenue for promotion.
Sociodemographic Determinants of Physical Activity and Sport Participation among Women in the United States, opens in a new tab, Jennifer Pharr, Nancy Lough, Angela Terencio, Sports, Volume 8(7), (July 2020). Little is known about the sociodemographic determinants of physical activity among women, especially among the different subcategories of physical activity (sport, conditioning exercise, recreation, and household tasks). The purpose of this study was to examine the sociodemographic determinants among subcategories of physically active women in the United States by analyzing Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data. There were significant differences in all sociodemographic variables among the four subcategories of physical activity. Women who participated in sport were more likely to be in the younger age groups; however, physical activity declined among all subcategories beyond the age of 64. Women who participated in sports were more diverse, likely to be employed, and college graduates compared to the other subcategories. Women who participated in recreational or household tasks were more likely to meet the criteria to be categorized as highly active; however, they exercised at a lower intensity. The sociodemographic characteristics of physical activity and sport participation can be used to create promotional strategies to increase physical activity and improve fitness and health among women who tend towards participation, and also to change programs to accommodate women from other sociodemographic groups.
Fitness- and appearance-related self-conscious emotions and sport experiences: A prospective longitudinal investigation among adolescent girls, opens in a new tab, Eva Pila, Catherine Sabiston, Diane Mack, et al., Psychology of Sport and Exercise, Volume 47, (March 2020). The objectives of this longitudinal study were to describe changes in fitness-related and appearance-related self-conscious emotions (i.e., guilt, shame, authentic pride, hubristic pride) and sport experiences (i.e., sport commitment, enjoyment, anxiety) over time, and examine whether between- and within-person differences in these emotions predict sport experiences during adolescence. Insights from the research suggest that: fitness-related shame and guilt increased; and pride, sport commitment and enjoyment decreased over 3 years. Girls with higher levels of fitness-related shame and guilt and lower levels of pride reported worsened sport experiences. Girls reported poor sport experiences at times when all emotions were worse than their own average. Fitness-related self-conscious emotions contribute to sport experiences above and beyond appearance emotions.
Building cultural diversity in sport: a critical dialogue with Muslim women and sports facilitators, opens in a new tab, Nida Ahmad, Holly Thorpe, Justin Richards, et al., International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics, Volume 12(4), pp.637-653, (2020). This paper draws upon focus groups with 38 Muslim women and 14 sports facilitators to explore the opportunities and constraints for Muslim women’s participation in sport and active recreation in Aotearoa New Zealand. The paper highlights the (mis)understandings between Muslim women and sports organisations as to the needs, barriers and strategies for building sport as more culturally inclusive. Bringing the voices of Muslim women and facilitators together into critical dialogue, we reveal important inconsistencies between perceived barriers. We also highlight the important work some individuals are doing to develop inclusive spaces for ethnic minorities. Ultimately, this research demonstrates the importance of cultural awareness, and the need for multicultural training initiatives across sports organisations to improve practice and policy.
Development and Validation of a Tool for Assessing Barriers to Participation in Team Sports for Women with Physical-Mobility Disabilities, opens in a new tab, Forough Bakhtiary, Mahvash Noorbakhsh, Parivash Noorbakhsh, et.al., Annals of Applied Sport Science, Volume 9(s1), (2020). One of the most important tasks of physical education managers is to remove the barriers to participation in physical activities. Disabled people face more barriers to sports participation than nondisabled people, and women with physical-mobility disabilities experience numerous barriers. Identifying these barriers requires a comprehensive, valid and reliable questionnaire that is capable of assessing barriers so that we can provide solution to remove these barriers by using this tool and the results of this research in the next steps. The results of the present study resulted in the identification of 10 factors, including individual, structural, psychological, managerial, media support, the role of coach, economic, psychological factors related to pitiful and disrespectful attitudes, supportive public social and cultural-religious factors. The personal conditions of the disabled people affect their sport participation. Physical problems, lack of family support for the disabled family member, lack of understanding of the usefulness of sports activities, lack of knowledge of how to participate in sports, Downloaded from aassjournal.com at 8:23 +0330 on Friday November 26th 2021 8 Sports Participation Barriers of Athlete with Physical-Mobility Disabilities inability to leave home due to inappropriate place of residence, and lack of a companion and teammate are considered as individual barriers for disabled women.
Parents, girls’ and Australian football: a constructivist grounded theory for attracting and retaining participation, opens in a new tab, Sam Elliott, Nadia Bevan, Catherine Litchfield, Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, Volume 12(3), pp.392-413, (2020). Increasing girls’ participation in organised sport in Australia represents an elusive challenge for most sporting codes. Girls encounter a range of barriers and obstacles that serve to discourage initial and ongoing participation in youth sport. One setting that has flourished is Australian football, coinciding with the establishment of a professional competition known as Australian Football League Women (AFLW) in 2017. This is somewhat ironic given that Australian football is widely perceived to be a masculinised sporting domain characterised by violence and injury. Despite this, national participation data suggests that Australian football is one of the most popular preferences among contemporary girls and young women at a time when attracting and retaining girls in sport is inherently difficult. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to generate a grounded theory surrounding how Australian football attracts and retains girls’ participation. A constructivist grounded theory (GT) methodology was used involving eight focus groups with 45 participants (girls and parents) involved in Australian football. Data were analysed through a process of initial and focused coding, and theoretical integration, leading to the development of a substantive grounded theory that comprised three categories including (a) sources of attraction, (b) facilitators for participation, and (c) reinforcers for retention.
The implications of female sport policy developments for the community-level sport sector: a perspective from Victoria, Australia, opens in a new tab, M. Casey, J. Fowlie, M. Charity, et al., International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics, Volume 11(4), pp.657-678, (July 2019). This study examined trends in sport participation among females over a six-year period (2011–2016) within five popular sports, by age and region. It also identified future challenges community sports face in increasing female sport participation. Results showed that female sport participation levels increased over the six-year period, with greater proportional increases among the youngest age group (4–9 years) – the common entry age into the organised sport through modified sports programs. Retention of females in sport throughout adolescence and adulthood remains a challenge. Community-level sports face challenges to accommodate growth in female sport participation in terms of availability and quality of sport infrastructure and volunteer capacity – both human resources to deliver sport and organisational capacity to devise and implement strategies to recruit and retain females. They also face challenges associated with the social construction of gender within sport and club environments. Sport policies that encourage female sport participation need to also consider the supply of sport such as maximising infrastructure usage, gender equity facility usage policies and developing volunteer capacity.
Indigenous Australian women promoting health through sport, opens in a new tab, Megan Stronach, Hazel Maxwell, Sonya Pearce, Sport Management Review, Volume 22(1), pp.5-20, (February 2019). Listening to Indigenous women and facilitating opportunities for them to take control of their own participation can help facilitate this process. Indigenous-women's only opportunities, partnerships with health agencies and sports organisations, culturally safe spaces and Indigenous women acting as role models are some factors that may augment Indigenous women's agency, and thus empowerment. Government, sports, community organisations and health agencies which provide these conditions in their program design can help to overcome entrenched social, historical and health inequalities that Indigenous women may experience.
Associations between environmental attributes of facilities and female participation in sport: a systematic review, opens in a new tab, Clare Hanlon, Claire Jenkin, Melinda Craike,  Managing Sport and Leisure  , Volume 24(5), pp.294-306, (2019). Relevant articles were identified through seven databases and included if female specific results were reported on the association between attributes of the physical environment and sports participation. Most studies were moderate quality and in terms of life stage focused on adolescent girls. Environmental attributes of facilities including perceived safety, convenient location and suitable amenities in sport and school facilities were associated with female participation in sport. The authors conclude that attributes of the physical environment may influence female participation in sport. Conclusions are tentative, based on minimal studies in this area. More attention to identify environmental attributes of facilities associated with encouraging female participation in sport across their transitional life stage is required to enhance understanding and guide facility development.
Engaging Fathers to Increase Physical Activity in Girls: The “Dads And Daughters Exercising and Empowered” (DADEE) Randomized Controlled Trial, opens in a new tab, Philip Morgan, Myles Young, Alyce Barnes, et al., Annals of Behavioral Medicine, Volume 53(1), pp.38-52, (2019). This study looked at the ways in which fathers may influence their daughter’s physical activity. Previous evidence has demonstrated that father's often spend more physically active time with their sons and rarely participate in family based programs. The trial intervention was an 8-week program including weekly educational and practical sessions plus home tasks. Assessments were at baseline, 2 months (post intervention), and 9 months. The primary outcomes were father–daughter physical activity levels (pedometry). Secondary outcomes included screen-time, daughters’ fundamental movement skill (perceived and objective) proficiency and fathers’ physical activity parenting practices. This study provided the first experimental evidence that efforts to increase physical activity behavior in preadolescent girls would benefit from a meaningful engagement of fathers.
Gender differences in physical activity motivators and context preferences: a population-based study in people in their sixties, opens in a new tab. Jannique G. Z. van Uffelen, Asaduzzaman Khan, and Nicola W. Burton, BMC Public Health, (2017). Although regular participation in physical activity (PA) has health benefits across the life span, the proportion of people doing sufficient activity for these benefits decreases with age. The aim of this study was to identify motivating factors and context preferences for PA in people in their sixties, and to examine gender differences in these factors. The three leading motivating factors for both women and men were to prevent health problems; to feel good; and to lose weight. Women were more likely than men to be motivated by improving appearance; spending time with others; meeting friends; or losing weight. The three leading context preferences for both women and men were for activities close to home; at low cost; and that could be done alone. Women were more likely than men to prefer activities that are with people of the same sex; supervised; with people the same age; and at a fixed time. Women were less likely than men to prefer activities that are competitive; vigorous; require skill and practice; and done outdoors. These results suggest that PA options for people in their sixties should be tailored to meet gender specific interests in order to promote PA participation in this rapidly growing population group.
Which Women are Highly Active Over a 12-Year Period? A Prospective Analysis of Data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health, opens in a new tab, Toby Pavey, Tracy Kolbe-Alexander, Leonie Uijdewilligen, et al., Sports Medicine, Volume 47(12), pp.2653-2666, (2017). The aims of this study were to identify the proportion of younger and mid-aged women who met the 300-min recommendation over a 12-year period, examine how the 'highly active' women achieved this level of activity (in terms of walking, moderate activity, and vigorous activity) and to identify the sociodemographic, biological, lifestyle and work-related determinants of being 'highly active'. The findings clearly indicate that the upper limit of the Australian PA guidelines is achievable for large numbers of women. Factors associated with being highly active were different for younger and mid-age women, but healthy weight, high education and paid work (full-time in the younger women, part-time in mid-age) were common characteristics of highly active women in both cohorts.
Sistas’ and Aunties: sport, physical activity, and Indigenous Australian women, opens in a new tab, Stronach, Megan, Maxwell, Hazel, Taylor, Tracy, Annals of Leisure Research, Volume 19(1), pp.7-26, (2016). Indigenous women have alarmingly low rates of participation in organised sport and physical activity (PA) in contemporary Australian society. To gain a better contextual and cultural understanding of the issues involved, we discussed the life experiences and the place of sport and PA with 22 Indigenous women. A complex amalgamation of cultural beliefs and traditions, history, gendered factors and geography are presented in the women's stories. Sport and PA were highly regarded, providing the women with opportunities to maintain strong communities, preserve culture and develop distinct identities as enablers. The women called for culturally safe spaces in which to engage in PA and noted the need for Indigenous females to act as role models. The study provides preliminary understandings that can be used to facilitate greater sport and PA inclusion and implications for future research are presented.
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun: Understanding perceptions of effective strategies and outcomes in a female youth-driven physical activity-based life skills programme, opens in a new tab, Bean C, Forneris T, Fortier M, Journal of Sport for Development, Volume 3(4), (2015). The Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (GJWHF) program is community-based and youth-driven, the program is designed to help Canada’s female youth (ages 5 to 18 years) by providing opportunities for girls from low-income families to increase their physical activity and develop life skills. This study explored the contextual factors viewed by participants as important in the delivery of GJWHF and the perceived developmental outcomes resulting from participation. From the results, several critical factors emerged as themes, they were: (1) the importance of a girls' only environment; (2) establishment of a trusting and caring environment; (3) the importance of positive leader support; (4) the emergence and strengthening of friendships; (5) development of a positive future orientation; (6) strong identity formation; and (7) development of leadership and teamwork. Overall, results from this study indicated that the GJWHF program met these expectations. Participants perceived the program as providing a positive context, including supportive external leaders, and providing an opportunity to learn a number of life skills.
Older women and their participation in exercise and leisure-time physical activity: the double edged sword of work, opens in a new tab, Carmichael F, Duberley J and Szmigin I, Sport in Society: Cultures, Commerce, Media, Politics, Volume 18(1), pp.42-60, (2015). This study explores the complex relationship between work and participation in exercise and leisure-time physical activity among older women (50+ years of age). What factors enable or constrain participation? More is known about the barriers than the motivating factors. Data for this study was taken from the British Household Survey and interviews with stakeholders. Time constraints, due primarily to work commitments but also family commitments, appear to be the greatest barrier to participation. The strongest enabling factors were the social aspects of sport participation, enjoyment, perceived health benefits, and prior experience (i.e. participation at a younger age). Similarly, the lack of engagement in sport during one’s younger years (or a negative experience) was given as a reason for not participating as a senior. This research highlights the influence that friends and partners have in motivating older women to participate. While employment status is a factor, other barriers to participation included economic considerations and psychological inhibitors (e.g. fear of injury, embarrassment and lack of confidence). Life-history experience of activity can be important as either an enabler or inhibitor; memories and perceptions of participation experiences in school can be long lasting.
Narrating the Multiplicity of ‘Derby Grrrl’: Exploring Intersectionality and the Dynamics of Affect in Roller Derby, opens in a new tab, Adele Pavlidis, Simone Fullagar, Leisure Sciences, Volume 35(5), pp.422-437, (2013). This article explores how identity categories intersect to shape the meaning of roller derby for different women. Narratives recount the complex affective relations (passion, frustration, pride, shame) that women negotiate in forming leisure identities in relation to the social context of their lives. The article aims to contribute to the development of feminist thinking about leisure as a negotiated space of transformation, creativity and difference.
“It's all about the journey”: women and cycling events, opens in a new tab, Simone Fullagar, Adele Pavlidis, International Journal of Event and Festival Management, Volume 3(2), pp.149-170, (2012). The purpose of this paper is to develop a gendered understanding of women's experience of a mass cycle tour event. The research findings identify a number of gender issues for professionals to reflexively consider in designing, promoting, managing and evaluating mass cycle tour events. The findings have implications for how active tourism events are conceptualised, promoted and managed as gender inclusive.
Physical Activity of Remote Indigenous Australian Women: A Postcolonial Analysis of Lifestyle, opens in a new tab, Doune Macdonald, Rebecca Abbott, David Jenkins, Leisure Sciences, Volume 34(1), pp.39-54, (2012). In the context of rising chronic diseases amongst Indigenous peoples, there are calls for the adoption of more healthy lifestyles. In this context, this paper explores thoughts about physical activity from 21 Indigenous families through the voices of women and girls living in remote rural communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area of Australia. Speaking back to physical activity as a lifestyle choice, three consistent themes emerged: shame; gendered positioning; and welfarism. In conclusion, the perspectives of Torres Strait islanders and Northern Peninsula Area communities suggest that there are deeply embedded ways of thinking about the body, familial obligations and the provision of and access to being active that are not consistent with Western health policies predicated upon individuals shouldering responsibility for taking exercise.
Women in Sport x Getty Images Menopause curation, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, (2021). Women in Sport has partnered with Getty Images to launch a curation of ground-breaking images and short films that challenge the way women going through the menopause are portrayed in society.
She Belongs: Building Social Connection for Lasting Participation in Sport, opens in a new tab, Canadian Women and Sport, (March 2020). This resource is designed for coaches who are ready to intentionally support equitable sport. She Belongs offers practical recommendations to create social connection and better engage girls in the Learn to Train and Train to Train stages of the Long-Term Development in Sport and Physical Activity Framework (LTD). Everyone involved—sport and physical activity organizations, coaches, managers and leaders, as well as parents/guardians—plays an integral role in creating the environments where girls can participate and have fun.
How to get (and keep) girls playing: strategies for engaging and retaining girls in sport, opens in a new tab, Made to Play, (2020). There are some basic things that coaches can do ahead of time to make sure that they are creating girl-centered environments. Some of these things have to do with the physical space, the language we use, the examples we elevate and the way we model behaviors. In some cases, like with facilities, coaches may not have direct control over these things. Regardless, it’s important for them to understand and advocate to program administrators for the needs of the girls on their teams.
Women in Sport Communication and Marketing Strategies, opens in a new tab, Victorian Government Change Our Game, (April 2019). The Change Our Game Women in Sport and Recreation Communication and Marketing Guidelines have been developed in conjunction with the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) to assist community sport and recreation organisations looking to develop inclusive communication and marketing practices.
HERA Toolkit, opens in a new tab, (accessed 1 March 2023). Whether you’re a coach, teacher or sports organisation we’ve pulled together resources, case studies, videos and research on how best approach getting girls active – have a look for yourself!
International Guide to Designing Sport Programmes for Girls, opens in a new tab, Women Win, (accessed 1 March 2023). This is a collaboratively-authored tool designed to help organisations develop and improve effective and sustainable programmes. It is intended to promote a global conversation between people who are passionate about changing girls' lives through sport. Programme Design, opens in a new tab includes these considerations: (1) understanding and overcoming challenges; (2) choosing the right sport for your programme; (3) using a curriculum; (4) building support for your programme; (5) safe spaces; (6) recruiting girls; and (7) developing leadership.
Keeping girls in sport, opens in a new tab, Jumpstart/Respect Group, (accessed 1 March 2023). Developed in partnership with the Coaching Association of Canada and Canadian Women and Sport this is an online resource that helps coaches and youth activity leaders to create safe and respectful environments for female athletes.
Project 51 Toolkit, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, (accessed 1 March 2023). Project 51 aims to help girls in the most deprived areas of the UK fulfil their potential and use sport to overcome the impact of negative gender stereotypes. It provides practical advice, tools and research relating to the themes 'think', 'say', and 'do'.
Menopause Stories short film, opens in a new tab, Women in Sport, YouTube, (19 May 2021). Women in Sport has partnered with Getty Images to launch a curation of ground-breaking images and short films that challenge the way women going through the menopause are portrayed in society. They showcase women who have experienced menopause, illustrating the joy of exercise and how it changed their lives building community, friendship, adventure, fun and camaraderie.
Play Fair, opens in a new tab, Fast and Female Canada, (2015). This documentary film questions the assumption that women’s fight for full rights in the world of sports is over. The film explores five decades of activism and legal challenges that women fought to ensure they would have equal access and rights to compete in sports on elite and community levels.
This Girl Can – what about you?, opens in a new tab, National Lottery, YouTube, (23 January 2015). Are you up for breaking a sweat? The UK Lottery-funded This Girl Can campaign s designed to inspire you to ‘sweat like a pig’ – and ‘feel like a fox’ while you’re doing it.
Women Win: digital storytelling project, opens in a new tab, Women Win, (accessed 1 March 2023). Women Win is committed to not just telling stories of girls' sport achievement and the impact those stories have, but helping build the skill and leadership of girls to tell their own story. A collection of videos is available to listen to and view.
Access to resources
Where possible, direct links to full-text and online resources are provided. However, where links are not available, you may be able to access documents directly by searching our licenced full-text databases (note: user access restrictions apply). Alternatively, you can ask your institutional, university, or local library for assistance—or purchase documents directly from the publisher. You may also find the information you’re seeking by searching Google Scholar, opens in a new tab.
Socio-cultural

Resources and reading

Articles

Books

Case Studies

Guidelines

Infographics

Reports

Research

Tools

Videos
