The research builds on the findings of ‘The Tipping Point’ report as well as the principles set out in ‘what works in schools and colleges to increase physical activity’. This report outlines the action research methodology and highlights the key findings from the literature review. It provides suggestions for schools to consider when seeking to engage less-active 8-10 year old girls in physical activity. 

The following recommended approaches for engaging less-active girls aged 8-10 years have been distilled from the results of this study. 

• CONSULT WITH LESS-ACTIVE GIRLS
  As a starting point and ongoing two-way process, this is essential to understanding girls’ needs, giving them ownership of physical activities, and helping to build trust.
• ENGAGE PARENTS
  Involving parents/carers is a key ingredient for successful implementation. Lack of parental support can impede girls from being more physically active.
• TRAIN SCHOOL STAFF
  Time out for staff to reflect, formulate ideas and plan the intervention is vital.
• MAKE IT RELEVANT
  Understand and explore the factors that prevent less-active girls from being active.
• INCREASE OPPORTUNITIES IN THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
  Provide opportunities throughout the school day, in PE lessons and at break times for less active girls to be physically active.
• IDENTIFY AND PROMOTE POSITIVE ROLE MODELS
  A variety of positive sporting role models can have a powerful effect on children’s attitudes to physical activity.
• PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIRLS TO BE LEADERS
  Provide less-active girls with opportunities to demonstrate leadership and make decisions to increase their effort during PE lessons and physical activity sessions.
• FOCUS ON FRIENDSHIP AND FUN
  Informal, girls-only physical activity sessions, which focus on fun and enjoyment with friends, are very successful.
• PROVIDE REWARDS AND RECOGNITION
  To influence girls’ attitudes, recognise and reward effort as well as achievement.
• USE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TO ATTAIN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT GOALS
  Interventions with both physical and cognitive components, such as goal-setting, tend to influence children’s levels of physical activity more strongly than those using only one component.