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We know that the last year has had a significant impact on physical activity across the board, but it's disheartening to read the facts and figures around the disproportionate damage to women's physical activity during this time.
In his latest blog for ukactive, Scientific Advisory Board member, Professor Greg Whyte, along with Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, outlined these gender disparities, and it makes for worrying reading.
First up, we are honoured that our Lockdown 1.0 and 2.0 surveys could provide context to this important piece of work - but we wouldn't have had a voice without the mums and mums-to-be who participated. A BIG shout out to you all - you're being heard!
Secondly, we're acknowledging that there's so much work to do. With the easing of restrictions over the coming months we will be able to access gyms, swimming pools, sports and exercise classes much as we did before the pandemic.
Unfortunately there were significant inequalities for pregnant and postnatal women pre-pandemic, and without action this will not change.
We represent mums and mums-to-be and we are doing our very best to be a very loud voice for systemic change i.e. we want all mothers to have access to appropriate guidance and support to empower them to make physical activity choices based on facts, not fiction, old wives tails or advice from unqualified social media influencers. It's going to take time, but we're up for it.
How can you help?
If you're a mum or mum-to-be, please make your voice heard by taking part in our Lockdown 3.0 survey, or share your experiences with us via email.
If you are a health or fitness professional we urge you to undertake the E-Learning for Healthcare module - it's short, insightful and will give you a grasp of the advice we advocate.
Our Promise
We will continue to bang the drum for mums and mums-to-be, influencing the organisations who can make a significant impact on the status quo e.g. ukactive and Sport England, to name but two. We cannot do it alone, and we don't intend to. So, here's to a bright and healthier future for women and their families.