The Research Behind the Precinct
At MLC, we understand that physical activity is essential not just for physical health, but for overall wellbeing and academic success.
Research consistently shows that regular physical activity has a profound impact on young people’s lives, particularly for girls.
|
Key Findings |
|
| Improved Academic Performance |
Studies have found that students who engage in regular physical activity tend to have better concentration, memory, and classroom behaviour, leading to improved academic outcomes. Physical activity helps develop traits such as discipline, perseverance, and time management, which are crucial for academic success. (CDC: The Association Between School-Based Physical Activity, Including Physical Education, and Academic Performance) (Sport Participation for Academic Success: Evidence From the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children) |
| Mental Health Benefits |
Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to combat stress, anxiety, and depression. Research indicates that exercise is 1.5 times more effective than counselling or medication for improving mental health in young people. This is particularly important given the rising mental health challenges faced by girls and young women today. (Effectiveness of physical activity interventions for improving depression, anxiety and distress: an overview of systematic reviews) |
| Physical Health and Long-Term Wellbeing |
Regular exercise during adolescence is linked to better health outcomes in adulthood, including lower risks of chronic diseases, improved body confidence, and healthier lifestyle habits. Active girls are more likely to maintain a healthy weight, have higher self-esteem, and develop a positive body image. (WHO: Physical Activity and Young People) (VicHealth. “Females and Physical Activity: What the Research Shows” (2019)) |
| Closing the Gender Gap | Despite these benefits, research highlights a significant disparity between young women’s and young men’s participation in physical activities. Young males (15-17 years) are three times more likely to engage in one hour of exercise each day compared to females of the same age. By age 17, over 90% of girls report insufficient levels of physical activity. This drop-off is particularly sharp during the teenage years when girls often lose interest or confidence in sports and physical activities. (UNESCO: The Case for Gender Equality in Sports) (VicHealth. “Females and Physical Activity: What the Research Shows” (2019)) |
| Pathways to Sporting Excellence |
Research shows that access to state-of-the-art sports facilities significantly boosts girls' participation in physical activities, which is essential for developing sporting excellence. High-quality, safe, and accessible facilities not only enhance skill development and performance outcomes but also help address gender disparities in sports, providing girls with equal opportunities to pursue higher levels of competition. (Journal of Physical Activity and Health: The Role of Facilities in Promoting Physical Activity) (Women’s Sports Foundation: Gender Equity and Sports Facilities) |