More Movement for Young women

Various studies have shown that physical activity among young people, especially young women, has been declining. While almost 100% of the recommended physical activity levels are reached in childhood, the figures decline significantly in the following years. The greatest decline can be observed among 17- to 19-year-old young women, with just under 20% being able to comply with the exercise recommendations. Less socially privileged children and children from migrant backgrounds also tend to be less active in sports.

The consequences of the lack of physical activity are enormous: every year in Switzerland, it causes at least 2,900 premature deaths and 2.1 million illnesses across all age groups. Healthcare costs amount to CHF 2.4 billion. In addition to the economic advantages, exercise and sport have numerous benefits and health effects for young people. Sufficient exercise is essential for the physical, psychological and social development of children and young people. Taking part in sport also facilitates social integration. One thing is clear: there is a need for action to promote sport among young people in Switzerland, especially girls.

How can the physical activity behaviour of 15-19 year-old girls be increased in the context of school and club sports? To answer this question, SA4D, with the support of BASPO, is conducting a feasibility study to determine what concrete measures are needed, e.g. in a promotional project. In addition, relevant favourable and inhibiting factors for the successful promotion of physical activity are being researched. In doing this, SA4D contributes to closing a research gap.

We are committed to supporting disadvantaged children and young people not only internationally but also in Switzerland. This is the third time that SA4D has worked with BASPO. In 2007, the first publication “Meeting through Movement: A Handbook” (available in German and French) was produced jointly with the Swiss Federal Office of Sport Magglingen (EHSM). The idea? To make it easier for children from migrant backgrounds to find their way into sports clubs by teachers describing local sports opportunities during regular school lessons. In a second cooperation, the manual “Cultural Diversity in Sports Associations” followed in 2012. The goal was to support sports clubs in including children and young people from migrant families.