Women and girls are less active than men and boys when it comes to sport-related activities. Keeping girls active helps to improve their quality of life. It also lowers the risk of unhealthy weight gain and developing chronic diseases. Physical activity ensures a strong, healthy body for years to come.   

Benefits of physical activity for girls 

Regular physical activity can help to:  

• Improve energy levels and fitness  

• Manage stress  

• Reduce depression and anxiety  

• Strengthen self-esteem and positive body-image 

• Improve mood and boost mental alertness  

It can be difficult to know where to start. A lot of girls may experience barriers to being active like fear of being judged, or struggling to find time between school, work and seeing friends. Being active is a great way to unwind and can easily be added into your day-to-day life in small amounts rather than a full 60-minute period. 

Including physical activity and being active in your family's life helps to be a role model for your daughter. Some girls can become self-conscious so it is always good to remind them not to focus just on the physical appearance as an outcome of being active. 

Tips for starting out:   

• Find something you enjoy  

• Get active with friends who can help keep you motivated  

• Try joining a team to meet new people and make friends, you can take a friend with you  

• Being active is more than organised sports. Try different ways of being active like bike riding, dancing, skateboarding, or going for a hike  

• Slowly increase the amount of activity you are doing   

• Learning new skills may seem like a challenge but it can be rewarding and fun! 

Campaigns

Girls Make Your Move is a campaign by the Australian government to encourage and support young women aged 12-19 to be more active. If you are stuck for ideas, visit Girls Make Your Move for ideas on how to get started or find an activity you want to try next.  

Her Sport Her Way is a strategy by the NSW Office of Sport. It aims to increase female participation in sport as players, leaders and coaches. Increased participation will lead to greater visibility of women’s sport, more opportunities in leadership and improved facilities. To keep updated on the strategy and opportunities to be more active, visit Her Sport Her Way 

Looking for some more motivation? Check out some inspirational stories from the Sporty Sistas here. 

[Source: Girls Make a Move, Vic Health; DOH Women’s Health Strategy ]