Only 36% of girls aged 11-18 wear sports bras during PE or sports at school. This revelation stems from a study conducted by Stronger in collaboration with Women in Sport, unravelling a myriad of challenges our girls face when it comes to sports kit.
1. The Sports Bra Gap:
- Alarming Stats: The study unveils a stark gap, with 69% feeling restricted in movement and 72% self-conscious about bounce, contributing to a negative sports experience.
- The Power of the Right Bra: Despite 84% acknowledging the need for proper sports bras, 6-in-10 opt for ordinary bras, citing reasons like not owning one (37%) and the cost (19%). Lack of awareness about changing bodies also plays a role, with 45% not considering sports bras for PE.
2. Impact on Confidence and Comfort:
- Game-Changing Effects: When girls do wear sports bras, there’s a remarkable surge in comfort (80%), confidence (45%), and the ability to run and jump without anxiety (46%).
- School Kit Oversight: Shockingly, only 14% of girls report sports bras being on their school kit list, highlighting a systemic gap.
4. Insights from Fran Hennessy and Women in Sport:
- Championing Change: Fran Hennessy emphasises the importance of sports bras for every aspiring athlete. Her petition aims to ensure that lack of access and education doesn’t hinder girls’ sporting dreams.
- CEO’s Perspective: Stephanie Hilborne, CEO of Women in Sport, underscores the need for suitable, supportive clothing to empower girls, challenging societal norms and fostering inclusivity.
5. Beyond Bras: Addressing Kit Challenges:
- Period Predicament: Adolescent girls aged 15-18 face additional challenges, feeling PE kit isn’t suitable during periods (69%), disliking shorts or skorts (60%), and experiencing self-consciousness (63%). Gendered PE kits even evoke feelings of being ‘sexualized.’
Share your thoughts, experiences, or insights on how we can bridge this gap and make sports a joyful and inclusive experience for every girl!