Reframing Exercise for Women

Many women struggle to meet the recommended levels of physical activity, facing barriers that prevent them from engaging in regular exercise and highlighting the need for targeted support

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on SME Today

A recent report shows that less than one in four women (23%) are achieving the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. It also highlights that 96% of women believe they are personally responsible for their lower activity levels, a belief the report suggests may be misdirected.

Key Findings

The report highlights three key findings: Time constraints and demanding work schedules are significant barriers for women under 50, affecting 79% of them. This issue is even more pronounced for women with childcare responsibilities, with 83% facing these challenges. The barriers remain high even for those who receive workplace (78%) and family (65%) support to stay active.

The data reveals that many women overlook the broader benefits of exercise. Only 26% of women are motivated by the mental health benefits of physical activity, while just 12% are driven by the desire to increase muscle mass and strength.

Understanding Life Changes

Additionally, a significant number of women report uncertainty about which types of exercise are most beneficial for them at different stages of their lives. This lack of knowledge could be contributing to lower participation rates, as women may not fully understand how exercise can support their overall wellbeing and adapt to their changing needs over time.

The report makes several key recommendations to better support women in increasing their physical activity levels. First, it suggests embedding health checks for women at key life stages, ensuring that women receive personalised guidance on how to stay active and healthy as their needs evolve.

It also calls for a rebranding of physical activity for women, aiming to make exercise more appealing and accessible. This could involve reshaping the messaging around exercise to focus not just on weight loss, but also on its mental health benefits, strength building and long-term well-being.

Building Support Networks

Support networks such as family, workplaces and healthcare providers also play a crucial role in encouraging women to exercise more regularly. For example, employers can introduce flexible work hours, offer workplace wellness programs, or provide access to exercise facilities, while healthcare providers can offer advice and resources on safe and effective exercise routines for women at different ages.

By addressing the barriers women face and offering tailored solutions, we can create an environment that empowers them to prioritise physical activity, leading to better overall health and wellbeing.