The initiative 'This Girl Can' is a campaign that aims to encourage women and girls in the UK to become more active and engaged in sports. Launched by Sport England in 2015, it celebrates women of all shapes and sizes, empowering them to embrace their bodies and feel confident in participating in physical activities.
One of the key objectives of the campaign is to address the gender gap in sports participation. Statistics show that men are generally more active than women across all age groups, with only one-third of British women doing enough exercise to keep healthy. The reasons behind this imbalance are complex and multifaceted, ranging from social stigmas and stereotypes to lack of access, lack of time, inadequate facilities, and low self-esteem.
'This Girl Can' aims to challenge these barriers by showcasing real women in various sporting activities, who are taking their first steps into sports or already making strides in the field. These images are raw, unedited, and authentic, portraying diverse women who come in different ages, sizes, shape, and backgrounds. The message is clear: anyone can participate in sports, regardless of their appearance, ability, or experience.
The campaign also highlights the health benefits of being physically active, such as reducing the risks of developing diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It encourages women to find their own ways of being active, whether it's through team sports, gym routines, yoga, or dance classes. The goal is to create a positive culture around sports where women feel comfortable and embraced, rather than judged or excluded.
Since its launch, 'This Girl Can' has been widely successful, inspiring millions of women to get involved in sports. According to Sport England, the campaign has directly contributed to over 3 million women becoming more active. It has also led to numerous spin-off initiatives, such as 'This Mum Moves,' which encourages new mothers to be active and healthy.
In conclusion, the 'This Girl Can' campaign has made a significant impact in promoting gender equality in sports and creating a more inclusive and positive environment for women to be active. It has shattered stereotypes and challenged cultural norms around women's bodies, inspiring millions of women to become more confident, healthy, and empowered. The initiative shows that the power of advertising can make a real difference in driving social change and advocating for healthier and happier societies.