A recent analysis indicates that half of 15-year-old girls in the UK avoid participating in school sports due to fear of failure, while one in five report that their schools do not offer physical activities they enjoy. The findings, published by the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), highlight growing concerns about declining physical activity among teenage girls.

The study found that girls tend to experience more restrictions on their independence compared to boys, with boys allowed to go out alone at an average age of 10.54 years—nearly a year earlier than girls, who typically achieve this at 11.24 years. Researchers also noted a shift in behavior partly attributed to increased screen time. One Year 8 student commented that since acquiring a new phone, she has been less inclined to leave her bedroom, feeling less energetic and more irritable.

Other factors contributing to reduced social and physical activity include financial barriers, with over half of girls citing cost as a deterrent to spending more time with friends. Additionally, about one-third of respondents said there is nowhere nearby they want to go, and roughly one in four reported feeling unsafe in their local areas.

Tabby Fitzgerald, a senior researcher at CSJ, emphasized the importance of physical activity for young people’s health and resilience, as well as its role in fostering friendships. She urged action to encourage teenagers to be more active. In response, the think tank proposed a plan recommending that every secondary school pupil receive two hours of physical education (PE) alongside two hours of extracurricular sport or physical activity each week.

Representatives from the Department for Education acknowledged these challenges and outlined steps to address them. A spokesperson noted that a new partnerships network aims to connect schools with community sports clubs, safeguard PE time in school curricula, and collaborate with organizations like Women in Sport to expand access to physical activity opportunities for all children.

The ongoing debate underscores the need for coordinated efforts among educators, policymakers, and community groups to counter barriers and promote sustained physical engagement among adolescent girls.