May 29, 2019.
Eight out of ten women do not walk enough in France. A study reveals that the lack of physical activity affects girls more than boys, starting in adolescence.
Women who are too sedentary
Are women less athletic than men? A study reveals that eight in ten French women take less than 10,000 steps per day, which is the minimum number of steps recommended by the World Health Organization to stay in shape and take care of their health. One in three women even takes less than 5,000 steps. The average is around 7,578 steps per day for women, compared to 8,217 for men.
The study published on May 29, by the Attitude Prévention association and carried out in collaboration with Irmes, highlights insufficient physical and sports activity for women and significant sedentary lifestyle. In France, women sit on average for 7.25 hours a day, much more than the Finns with 5h47 of sedentary time. According to the study carried out in five European countries, 7 out of 10 women underestimate the risks that a sedentary lifestyle induces on their health.
A decline in the practice that occurs during adolescence
Only 40% of French women spend the majority of their free time on physical activity. 83% of them exercise at least once a week and generally prefer walking (22%), cycling (16%), running (16%), swimming and fitness. Their main motivation remains physical maintenance and well-being. for 65% of them. For the majority of women who do not practice sport, they highlight time constraints (42%), lack of motivation (36%), lack of supply (34%), lack of time (20%) and cost (17%). Only a medical prescription (23%) or a practice with family or friends (22%) could encourage them to change their habits.
The gap between boys and girls in sports practice appears from adolescence. 69% of girls aged 6 to 11 participate in sport, but only 53% of 11-17 year-olds continue to participate in physical activity. The most popular sports for young girls are gymnastics, dance, water sports, team sports, horseback riding and combat sports. On average, 61% of girls aged 6 to 17 play sports, the gap with boys does not disappear until the age of 35.
Nicolas boutin
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