Understanding gender gaps in sports and physical activity in India

There is a growing gender disparity in levels of sports and physical activity (SAPA) engagement in India. Currently, only 43% of Indian women engage in the recommended levels of physical activity according to the latest findings of the World Health Organization (WHO). However, if the trend continues, this number could drop dramatically to 32% by 2030. This applies across all age groups, with the gender gap in physical activity growing with age, starting at 4% among adolescents and widening to 22% among the elderly. 

The numbers are even more concerning when we look at the gender gaps across the different life stages, as revealed by the State of Sports and Physical Activity report (2024), authored by Sports and Society Accelerator (SSA) and Dalberg Advisors. It found that women’s involvement in diverse physical activities also lags, with 40% citing domestic chores as their primary activity and 12% fewer women engaging in muscle-strengthening exercises. The most pronounced gender gaps are observed in the 15-30 age group, due to drop-offs in playtime and opportunities for women and girls. 

More than just a tool for physical fitness and athletic achievement, SAPA can empower women and girls by building mental resilience, fostering leadership, and developing key life skills. Studies show that those who engage in regular SAPA not only experience better mental health but also report higher levels of confidence and self-esteem. SAPA has also been found to benefit women during key life stages, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, helping them navigate these physical and emotional transitions with greater ease and strength. Girls who engage in SAPA are more likely to exhibit positive behavioural change such as self-efficacy, and develop stronger social networks and skills, which in turn foster greater empowerment. Beyond individuals, SAPA strengthens community bonds and promotes inclusive participation through social interaction.

Leisure-time physical activity is a critical area for women’s engagement in SAPA, offering them a space to exercise voluntarily, reducing stress, and enhancing overall wellbeing. Engaging in SAPA in their leisure time can be particularly beneficial for women in fostering positive experiences that can enhance satisfaction and motivation to continue SAPA participation and support long-term engagement. However, this is where many women encounter heightened barriers. Our latest issue brief, Active Equity Towards Addressing Gender Gaps in Sports and Physical Activity in India maps the factors that may hinder or prevent an average Indian woman from participating in sustained SAPA through childhood to adulthood. A review of existing literature reveals that gender norms play a big role. Social expectations often make girls and women prioritize domestic responsibilities, leaving little time or opportunity for recreational SAPA. In traditional settings, the notion of women engaging in leisure-time SAPA is often viewed as secondary, with limited access to safe, affordable spaces for exercise. The exhibit above captures the barriers that women and girls may face across their different life stages.

Acknowledging the barriers is the first step, but it is equally important to recognize the opportunities that lie ahead. SAPA can act as a powerful catalyst for change in women's lives, challenging the very gender norms that often prevent them from engaging in these activities in the first place. Around the world, localized and collaborative initiatives have shown that change is possible. Educational campaigns such as the ‘This Girl Can’ that normalize SAPA for women of all shapes, sizes, and ages have proven effective in breaking stereotypes and empowering women to take charge of their health. In India, initiatives of several sports for society organizations such as Naandi Foundation have successfully utilized sports as a vehicle of social change. These programs not only offer opportunities for participation in sports but highlight the role of sports in building confidence, promoting education, and transforming entire communities. The changing landscape of women’s participation in sports is further reflected in the growing representation of women in the Indian Olympic contingent, with the last three games witnessing over 40% female participation.

To create lasting change, we need to reshape societal norms and perceptions about women’s participation in SAPA. We believe that three transformative actions are essential for effecting meaningful change:

1. Design SAPA-focused curriculum and gender-sensitive initiatives in schools, ensuring inclusion and early exposure to SAPA.
2. Launch national and community awareness campaigns to foster gender equity, inclusivity, and support for SAPA. 
3. Create safe and enabling environments for girls to engage in SAPA and mentorship programs with role models to inspire and challenge stereotypes.

The gender gap in SAPA presents not only a challenge but also a significant opportunity to create lasting change and foster equity through targeted interventions. Achieving equity in SAPA requires collaboration among governments, private organizations, schools, and communities to ensure safe, accessible, and affordable opportunities for women and girls. Collective action can break barriers and pave the way for a future of active equity.

We invite you to read the issue brief and share your thoughts and comments with us at [email protected]. 

About the authors

Kanishka Bhattacharya is a strategy consultant working in the sustainable development sector. He was the research lead for SSA. Sugandha Vats is an Associate at SSA. 

About SSA: The Sports and Society Accelerator is a public-spirited, independent, not-for-profit organization working to shape the world around us through sports and physical activity (SAPA). Its focus is on actionable policy and regulatory guidance and recommendations, data-led research, proofs of concept, projects and programmes, and assistance and advisory services to stakeholders and partners.

Image: Wikipedia Commons