Girls in Sport: Why a PE Kit Choice Could Keep Them Active

Girls’ enjoyment of PE falls sharply during adolescence, and education experts are calling on schools to look at the whole experience of taking part, including something as simple as what pupils are asked to wear. Getting girls in sport to stay active may start there.

The numbers

The Youth Sport Trust’s Girls Active survey, which involved more than 15,000 young women, found that 86% of girls aged seven to eight enjoy PE. By the age of 15, that falls to 56%. Yet 62% said they wanted to be more active at school but faced barriers.

The barriers

Among 14 and 15-year-olds, 46% said a lack of confidence stopped them being more active, and 52% named periods as a barrier. This is not simply teenage girls losing interest in exercise.

Why the PE kit matters

Only one in four girls aged 11 to 13 said they felt confident in their PE kit, down from 65% of girls aged seven to eight. And 58% of girls wanted more kit options, compared with 29% of boys. For girls dealing with puberty, periods and body confidence, what they wear can make a big difference.

What schools can do

• Offer choices such as shorts, skirts, leggings or tracksuit bottoms.
• Let pupils wear what makes them comfortable and confident.
• Talk openly about periods and provide products.
• Offer a range of activities beyond traditional team sports.

What parents can do

Ask your daughter what she likes and dislikes about PE, and support her to raise it with school. Encourage activities outside school, such as dance, swimming or walking, to rebuild confidence.

A small change in kit policy is a low-cost way to help girls stay active for life.

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