01-07-2025
Most women quit team sports by the age of 21 - despite mental and physical benefits
Only seven per cent of women in the UK participate in team sports, with the majority giving up by the age of 21, according to new research. The study, which surveyed 3,000 women with a background in sports, found that seven in ten believe it is easier for men to continue playing team sports as they get older.
While many women play team sports regularly up to the age of 25, participation drops sharply into single figures among women in their 30s, 40s and 50s. The biggest barriers were busy schedules, work commitments, and family responsibilities. Three-quarters of women admitted there are weeks when they struggle to fit in any exercise at all.
The research was commissioned by AXA UK as part of its 'Keep on Kicking' campaign, which aims to highlight the challenges women face in staying active in team sports throughout different life stages.
The campaign also celebrates AXA's sponsorship of this summer's UEFA Women's Euro 2025 in Switzerland and its support for Women's Walking Football across the UK.
Tara Foley, CEO of AXA UK & Ireland, said: "It is concerning that so few women over 18 are currently taking part in team sports. Being part of a team, whether in business or on the sports field, helps to develop so many valuable skills, as well as building resilience and forging trusted relationships.
"We hope AXA's sponsorship of this summer's Women's EURO and support for Women's Walking Football will shine a light on the benefit of getting involved in a team sport, at whatever stage of life you are at, can bring."
Tash Dowie, who retired from professional football in 2023, also voiced her disappointment. 'Team sport has played such a huge role in my life and the benefits for mental and physical health can't be underestimated,' she said.
Dowie, now a Liverpool FC ambassador, recently attended an event at Anfield where women aged 50 and over played walking football. She said: 'Some had experienced cancer or strokes and this was almost like their second life. I think it's really powerful and important that the older generation get that opportunity to have a go now. They tell me how important it is for them mentally as well.
"It's saved a lot of people's lives being able to play the game, socially in that environment of being around people."
The study found that women who exercise do so three times a week, including twice with others. Of those who play team sports, 84 percent wish they could find the time to play more often with football, basketball and netball being the most popular choices.
Encouragingly, nine out of ten parents said it was important to set a positive example for their children when it comes to exercise. Dowie added: "Providing opportunities for women to re-engage with team sports at whatever age, such as Women's Walking Football, is a really positive step towards helping them stay healthy and enjoy the camaraderie that being part of a team brings."
Tara Foley echoed this sentiment, saying: 'As a health insurance provider, we know the long-term benefits of staying fit and healthy – both mentally and physically.
