ASICS: a study on the gender gap in exercise

The results of the study commissioned by ASICS on the Gender Exercise Gap

ASICS conducted a study of more than 24,000 people confirming that regular physical activity brings greater happiness, energy and confidence in women. However, more than half of women give up or drastically reduce exercise, resulting in negative impacts on mental well-being. ASICS is committed to promoting awareness of these challenges and supporting those seeking to break down barriers to women’s exercise through the “Move Her Mind” campaign. Women face many barriers to playing sports, including lack of time, insecurity, and intimidating environments. Motherhood is a common reason for stopping regular physical activity. Men often underestimate these challenges, highlighting a gender perception gap. However, friends, parents and partners can positively influence women’s participation in sports. Women’s main motivation for exercise is mental and physical health, not aesthetics. ASICS emphasizes the need to make sports more accessible, inclusive and recognized, challenging society’s gender expectations.
The story of Karen Guttridge, who created a running group for women over 50, demonstrates the importance of welcoming, judgment-free spaces to motivate women to get moving. ASICS celebrates the people and organizations working to break down barriers to women’s exercise and invites everyone to share their stories and experiences to inspire more women to play sports and get moving.