The Challenge of Girls Dropping Out of Sport
When discussing physical activity among girls, a common statistic that arises is the number of girls who discontinue participating in sports during their teenage years. In an Irish context, data from Sport Ireland supports this trend.
Sport Participation Rates Among Girls
A study revealed that while 94% of girls at the primary level in Ireland were engaged in school sports, this percentage significantly dropped to 69% among girls in secondary school. In terms of community sports, 75% of younger girls participated in sports outside of school, compared to 69% of secondary school-aged girls.
Addressing the Issue
The reasons behind girls dropping out of sports are well-documented and debated. Sporting bodies are now actively working to tackle these factors in order to retain more girls in sports activities.
Introducing Runners High: Empowering Women Through Running
Celina Stephenson, the founder of Runners High, a social running club based in Dublin, aims to change the narrative for women who may have once felt that sports and physical activities were not for them.
Celina’s Journey to Running
Celina, a self-proclaimed ‘slower runner,’ shares her transformation from struggling with running to setting ambitious goals. Inspired by the London Marathon, she challenged herself to participate in the event, despite her initial limitations.
The Rise of Running Community
Running has gained popularity, especially on social media platforms like TikTok. Celina’s authentic portrayal of her running journey, devoid of unrealistic expectations, has resonated with many individuals seeking genuine inspiration.
Building a Supportive Community
Runners High provides a welcoming space for individuals to engage in running at their own pace, fostering a sense of inclusivity and encouragement within the running community.
Growth and Overcoming Challenges
Despite initial apprehensions, Celina’s running events have garnered significant participation and support. The club’s expansion to Dublin signifies its positive impact on empowering women through running.
Embracing Personal Growth
Through her running journey and community-building efforts, Celina reflects on her personal growth and newfound confidence. She encourages others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace challenges, emphasizing the rewarding nature of pushing oneself beyond perceived limits.
