Adolescence is a tough obstacle course for girls. In fact, their bodies change, their psychosocial needs change, and their school environment is not always conducive to physical activity.

These factors are summarized in a FitSpirit videobased on testimonies from teenage girls. The whole thing is confirmed by a Ministry of Education report.

The causes of dropping out of sport

Psychosocial factors such as pressure, competition, stage fright and the attitude of certain boys or teachers create an uncomfortable climate for many girls. The lack of diverse role models and visibility of women’s sport in the media does not improve the situation.

Puberty is accompanied by significant physical changes such as sweating, hair growth, breast development and menstruation. Other obstacles – even taboos – are difficult to overcome in a school or sports competition context.

Added to these upheavals are practical irritations, such as the discomfort of breaking a sweat between math class and science exam, or the lack of time.

Luckily, several organizations are implementing initiatives to reduce girls dropping out of sport, enabling the next generation to thrive on the move.

Solutions to change the game

FitSpirit gets involved in secondary schools by creating non-competitive multi-sport teams. Every spring, the organization organizes large, stimulating and colorful events that bring together thousands of young girls. Training videos and workouts are also available online.

The Ministry of Education report mentioned above suggests courses of action to turn the tide. Several recommendations concern the care of young girls and the school infrastructure. A first step is to get teachers and trainers to understand and accept the changes that puberty brings by giving them access to training on the subject. Providing functional showers and giving young people enough time to use them between classes is a second.

Other means have been identified to encourage girls to participate in sport, such as B. Expanding the range of physical activities (competitive and non-competitive, outdoors, including an artistic aspect) and increasing opportunities to be active with friends. An example is the Sainte-Louise-de-Marillac school, which has introduced dance recreations. Other facilities have the acrobatic rope, the slap (cheerleader) or the circus on their extracurricular offer.

While getting girls back into sport is a major challenge, part of the solution is providing them with an environment that is nurturing and responsive to their needs. So why not consult key stakeholders to find out what they want when it comes to physical activity?

This content was created by Mishmash Brand Studio in cooperation with the advertiser. The journalists from News were not involved in the creation of this content.