The Big Sister project was set out with a clear mission: to bust the myth that teenage girls are innately averse to exercise.
Women in Sport is the UK’s leading charity for female sports research. They designed the Big Sister project to combat a sharp drop-off in sport during teenage years. It was created by and shaped for girls, putting their needs and voices front and centre.
Big Sister was created out of a shared vision. It aims to to break down barriers and address the stigma and gender stereotyping which can prevent girls from leading happy, healthy and active lives. Especially at a time in adolescence when they could benefit most.
Exercise can help prevent issues like anxiety during teenage years. It can also lower the risk of osteoporosis for women later in life.
Why the project is needed
Last year, a report by charity Women in Sport found that 1.3 million teenage girls who once considered themselves ‘sporty’ are disengaging from sport following primary school.
A fear of being judged by others, a lack of confidence in their ability, body image, and puberty were found to be significant barriers to participation.
Determined to create change, Women in Sport led the creation and implementation of the Big Sister project. They did this with the support of a consortium…
