Mind the gap - Mind the Gap

According to a report by UNESCO, only 37% of countries have achieved gender parity in sports participation, with girls still being underrepresented in many sports. The gender gap in sports participation is most pronounced during adolescence, particularly between the ages of 12 and 18. This is the age when girls are more likely to drop out of sports. By age 14, girls drop out of sports at twice the rate of boys. This is a critical age because girls start to experience changes in their bodies due to hormonal changes and menstrual health, which can affect their performance and confidence in sports. Coaches and educators have the authority to use diverse training methods for athletes, and this can vary depending on the sport and individual. However, the overuse or incorrect implementation of certain techniques can have adverse effects on athletes. While the unique physiology of female athletes may require tailored training approaches that differ from those required for male athletes, the topic has historically been ignored and even considered somewhat taboo. A Women's Sports Foundation survey found that only 34% of coaches reported receiving formal training on menstrual health. Moreover, many coaches lacked knowledge about the potential effects of menstruation on athletic performance and recommended ways to manage menstruation during sports activities. The project "Mind the Gap: Bridging the Menstrual Health Knowledge Gap for Sports Staff" strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment for female athletes by increasing awareness and knowledge of menstrual health among sports staff, particularly coaches and trainers. To achieve its objectives, the project will undertake several key activities, including the creation of a comprehensive manual on menstrual health management in sports, the development and implementation of training programs for sports staff, and a targeted awareness-raising campaign to promote menstrual health education and a that is published through this page expresses the views of the project beneficiaries only and it does not represent the views of the European Union or the European Commission. It shall not be deemed to constitute legal or official notice on behalf of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for this content nor the use thereof made by any third parties. Page 2 of 2