A report published by the Women's Sport and Fitness Foundation 'Changing the game, for girls', identifies that girls in the UK are not getting enough exercise, and that schools hold the key to encouraging girls to get active. Official figures show that just 12% of 14 year old girls are reaching the recommended levels of physical activity, half the number of boys at the same age. This is despite three quarters (74%) of girls saying they would like to be more active. The report also highlights the gender gap that emerges between girls and boys as they grow up. In year four of primary school, girls and boys are doing similar levels of physical activity. However, by year six girls are doing considerably less exercise than boys, a gap that widens as girls reach year nine of secondary school. The report makes a series of recommendations on how to help girls enjoy and sustain an active lifestyle.
Report: http://wsff.org.uk/publications/reports/changing-the-game-for-girls
Press release: http://wsff.org.uk/publications/reports/changing-the-game-for-girls
BBC News report: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-17873519
