Boosting women's physical activity through corporate sport

Statistics show that women are less physically active than men. According to an INSEE study, only 60% of women take part in regular physical activity, compared with 71% of men. This disparity is even more marked among mothers, who have to juggle family and professional responsibilities.

Why are women less active than men?                              

On average, women continue to devote more time than men to housework and parenting. A study by the University of Cambridge and Southampton found that mothers of children under the age of 4 engage in an average of 19 minutes of physical activity per day, compared with 26 minutes for those with school-age children. Family responsibilities, such as childcare and household chores, are often cited as major obstacles to sporting activity.

Women often face a lack of free time due to family obligations and domestic chores. In addition, lack of support from a spouse or extended family can compound this problem, making regular physical activity even more difficult. Thestudy highlights that mothers with several children engage in less moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) than those with just one child.

Family responsibilities can also have a psychological impact, increasing stress and fatigue, which can reduce motivation for physical activity. Women may feel guilty when they take time for themselves instead of looking after their families, which can discourage them from taking part in physical activities.

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Sport in the workplace: an effective solution

Women, and mothers in particular, often prefer physical activities that can be easily integrated into their daily routine. Activities such as walking, office yoga and online fitness classes are popular because they offer flexibility and can be done at home. A study by the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières shows that women prefer activities that can be easily integrated into their busy schedules(Le Devoir).

To adapt to the needs of women, particularly in the corporate world, it is crucial to offer solutions that take into account their time constraints and family responsibilities. Companies can play a key role by offering sports programs in the workplace, such as fitness classes during the lunch break or yoga sessions in the office after work. Women are more receptive to the idea of having a defined slot in the week during working hours, as this enables them to engage in physical activity without feeling guilty about taking time away from their family obligations. Flexible working hours are also one of the levers that enable women to engage in more physical activity. Indeed, flexible working hours and telecommuting make it easier for women to manage their schedules as they see fit, making it easier to find time for physical activity.

Sport in the workplace is not that complicated. SPART is the ideal partner to help you implement corporate sport and improve the well-being of your employees.

Reducing gender inequalities in sport requires an approach that takes into account women's family responsibilities and time constraints. By adapting sports facilities to women's specific needs, including company sports, it is possible to promote regular physical activity and contribute to well-being at work.

Still not convinced? Discover the 10 compelling reasons to take up sport at work.

Finally, integrating sport into the workplace is a small step for the company, but a big step for women's well-being! 😊

By Candice Lhomme

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