We've all heard that fat is a feminist issue, but how many of us have considered that physical activity is a feminist issue?

At the Exercise Psychology Unit, we do research on how best to get people more active and enjoy the benefits of physical activity. However, when I watch news coverage about recent natural disasters, I am reminded that access and opportunities to engage in physical activity and sport can be a taken-for-granted privilege that is not always available outside western countries. Sadly, I have learned that due to political, socio-economic, cultural and religious barriers, many girls and women who live in socio-economically-deprived regions that are war-torn, gender-oppressed, and racist, lack these very same opportunities to be active that we so readily enjoy.

However, one organization, Right to Play, is trying to make a difference in the lives of girls and women. They are in the process of creating sustainable and culturally-sensitive programs that aim to provide safe and enjoyable physical activity and sport. For example, Right to Play programs have been established in countries such as Tanzania, Sudan, and Uganda. These peer-facilitated grassroots sport programs, such as soccer or basketball, are not cost and resource intensive and are offered in girls and women's local communities. In addition to learning how to play sports, girls and women also learn health-related knowledge through the organization, as well as important values such as hope, leadership, and respect.

When girls play sport, the benefits are tremendous. For example, in addition to notable physical health benefits, participation in sport and development programs may enhance self and social esteem, empowerment, leadership, friendship and solidarity and community cohesion. Sport participation can also be used as an educational tool that equips girls and women with health-related knowledge and education about such issues as HIV/AIDS. More importantly, by reducing negative assumptions regarding the presumed capabilities of girls and women, sport participation may be a powerful vehicle for social change.

When I read and about the benefits of physical activity and sport on That's Fit.ca , I am reminded that the physical activity experiences of silenced and oppressed girls and women who live in countries that are war torn and gender oppressed, are often overlooked or ignored. Some of the challenges faced by these girls and women appear to be insurmountable. However, volunteering with Right to Play, raising awareness about Right to Play programs, and engaging in fundraising, are possible ways to help.

Remember:
1. Due to social and political conflict, many girls and woman around the world lack basic access and opportunities for safe and enjoyable physical activity and sport.
2. Think about donating some time or money to Right to Play!

This story was written by Fiona Moola who is a Doctoral Candidate in the Graduate Department of Exercise Sciences at the University of Toronto.