At a glance
Fear of judgement, lacking confidence, not having enough time – our research shows there are a mix of practical and emotional pressures that stop many women from being as active as they would like.
In fact, 39% of women aged 16 and over are not active enough to get the full health benefits of sport and physical activity, compared to 35% of men.

Closing the gap
We’re looking to close the gender gap and persuade more women to get active. Because not only does regular activity improve women's own physical and mental health; women have a strong influencing role within their own families.
That’s why in 2015 we launched our groundbreaking This Girl Can campaign.
This Girl Can challenges the conventional idea of what exercise looks like, and aims to inspire more women and girls to wiggle, jiggle, move and prove that judgement, time, money and energy are barriers that can be overcome.
Our strategy – Towards an Active Nation
Getting women and girls more involved in sport and activity through campaigns like This Girl Can is a crucial part of our Towards an Active Nation strategy.
Our vision is that everyone in England, regardless of age, background or ability, feels able to take part in sport or activity.
This ambitious strategy means we’re going to need to work in different ways to make sure everyone can get the most out of getting active.