Tackling the Global Inactivity Crisis: The Role of Women in Shaping the Future of Health.
Tackling the Global Inactivity Crisis: The Role of Women in Shaping the Future of Health.
One of the top goals set by the United Nations is to improve "good health and well-being" globally. However, we are currently facing a significant challenge: a global burden of physical inactivity. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights a troubling trend—age and gender differences significantly affect physical activity levels, creating a complex issue that needs urgent attention.
The Global State of Physical Inactivity
Since the year 2000, there has been a persistent gap in physical activity between men and women. On average, women are 5% less active than men. The situation worsens as people age, with inactivity levels increasing dramatically after 60 in both men and women. Adolescents, too, face alarming rates of inactivity: 81% of adolescents worldwide are physically inactive, and the issue is even more pronounced among girls. About 85% of adolescent girls fail to meet WHO guidelines for physical activity, compared to 78% of boys .
This data underscores the importance of creating environments and cultures that promote physical activity for all, with a special focus on women. To drive meaningful change, we need to address barriers specific to gender and life stages.
Why Women Matter: A Key Force in Health
Women play a pivotal role in influencing global health trends. They account for 85% of purchasing power and economic decision-making, meaning that women’s choices have a direct impact on family health, particularly the health of children. However, studies show that women often prioritize family health over their own, which contributes to the physical inactivity gap .
The business world is already taking note of the potential in women's health. In 2023, sales of women’s sportswear grew faster than men’s, reaching a value of $143 billion. Moreover, 51% of women say they plan to increase their spending on health-related products and services in the coming year. Companies that focus on this demographic have an opportunity not only to drive profits but also to play a role in solving the inactivity crisis.
Research shows that companies with more diverse leadership, especially those with at least 30% female executives, are associated with a 15% increase in net revenue. Furthermore, organisations that cultivate gender-inclusive cultures are 63% more likely to report increased profitability and productivity. This illustrates the broader impact of supporting women—both in business and health.
The Power of Sports: From the Field to the Boardroom
There is a clear connection between physical activity and leadership development. Remarkably, 94% of women in C-suite positions have a background in sports. This shows that participation in physical activities can set the stage for success in the business world. Encouraging girls and women to engage in sports is not only important for their health but also for cultivating future leaders.
At The Collective, we recognize the need for a comprehensive approach that includes strategies to support women at every stage of life, from childhood through their careers. Our work focuses on increasing female representation in leadership roles and ensuring that these leaders can help shape strategies that address women’s specific health needs, including healthy aging, menopause, and strength training to manage chronic conditions.
Addressing the Challenge: A Collaborative Approach
To effectively combat global inactivity, we need a top-down and bottom-up approach. At the strategic level, we need more women in leadership positions to advocate for policies and programs that support physical activity for all. At the same time, we must also develop products, services, and environments that are science-based and tailored to the needs of women across various life stages.
The Collective is committed to creating pathways for aspiring professionals and emerging leaders, offering them opportunities to step into influential roles. In the short term, we provide plug-and-play solutions to address immediate needs. In the long term, our goal is to foster the development of future leaders who will drive progress in this space.
Promoting Gender-Balance and Visibility in Leadership
One of our key initiatives is to increase the visibility of competent leaders, particularly with a gender-balance perspective. By expanding networks and showcasing qualified experts, we aim to promote balance and ensure that women and other underrepresented groups have access to leadership opportunities. This, in turn, will help drive more inclusive solutions to the global inactivity crisis.
In conclusion, addressing the gender gap in physical activity and promoting women’s leadership in health related businesses is not only a moral imperative but also a smart business strategy. By supporting women to be more active, both physically and professionally, we can create healthier individuals, stronger companies, and a more prosperous society.
References
World Health Organization. "Physical Activity Facts." WHO, 2020.
Silverstein, M. J., & Sayre, K. "The Female Economy." Harvard Business Review, 2009.
Women’s Sport Foundation. "Physical Activity and Women: Research Findings." 2018.
"Women’s Sportswear Market." Global Industry Report, 2023.
McKinsey & Company. "Women’s Health: What Women Want." 2023.
Catalyst. "The Bottom Line: Corporate Performance and Women's Representation." 2022.
McKinsey & Company. "Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters." 2020.
Ernst & Young. "Athletics and Leadership: A Winning Combination." 2021.
