These factors mean young women gradually participate less and drop out of structured activity at a faster rate than young men. A range of complex factors contribute to the gender gap. These are explored in research conducted in 2021 that clearly outlines why there is a strong decline in physical activity levels for this demographic.
Together with the support of the sport and active recreation sector in Aotearoa, It’s My Move aims to reduce the gender participation gap. As well as encouraging young women to find physical activity options they enjoy, the movement is about educating parents/caregivers and providers of physical activity about the ways they can support and build the confidence of young women.
It’s My Move is a key initiative in ӣֱ’s Women and Girls Action Plan, which was produced in 2022 to continue driving progress round the Government’s 2018 Women and Girls in Sport and Active Recreation Strategy. It’s My Move continues to shift attitudes thanks to the leadership and support of ӣֱ partners, sector providers and supporters of young women.
To support young women to lead healthy and active lives we need to understand what matters to them.
Become part of the It’s My Move movement and help young women to be active and healthy their way. Here’s how:
The It’s My Move final report details how the campaign evolved to engage directly with young women by using influencer led, social-first storytelling. ‘Going Unpro’ reframes physical activity as fun, informal and achievable and has seen meaningful behaviour change nationwide.
The It’s My Move progress report outlines what we set out to achieve through the campaign, the results to date, as well as where we’re heading next. The report shows encouraging results – It’s My Move is inspiring shifts in attitude that encourage young women to be more physically active.