New school uniform for girls: how special clothing will reduce dropout rates from physical education classes.

New ergonomic PE kit

According to The Sun: A new ergonomic PE kit has emerged, aimed at encouraging teenage girls to participate in sporting events.

The prototype was created based on a study that covered 2000 girls aged 14 to 16 years. It turned out that 74% of them would enjoy PE more if the kit were more comfortable, and 70% would be more inclined to participate.

The kit, designed by sportswear brand ASICS in collaboration with Inclusive Sportswear and the charity Mind, aims to address the main issues girls face in sports.

Among the primary difficulties are limited choices, uncomfortable materials, shapeless designs, unsuitable weather conditions, and issues related to menstruation, sweat absorption, and garment visibility.

Main features of the kit

The kit focuses on comfort, choice, and confidence. It consists of three versatile components that allow girls to focus on enjoying physical activities and continue engaging in sports.

Comfort is ensured through sprinter shorts that can be adapted to preferences - from short to more loose-fitting.

The kit also includes a hair tie sewn into the zipper, which helps avoid discomfort during training.

The kit is adapted to various weather conditions, has water-repellent properties, and features a hood for rain protection. The removable outer layer allows it to be suitable for any weather conditions.

The removable inner lining is designed for varying body temperatures and can be used as a vest - for light warming up or cooling down.

Dark fabric colors help conceal potential leaks, while hidden zip pockets are intended for tampons or valuables, addressing issues with menstruation and lack of storage space.

The comfort from recently released kits, which caused discomfort and transparency, has also been improved by the use of soft, moisture-wicking, dark fabrics.

An elastic bungee-style waistband provides a better fit, helping to avoid discomfort from shapeless kits.

Testing and supporting changes

The kit has been tested by students at Burnley High School, where low participation rates in physical education were recorded.

ASICS supports Inclusive Sportswear - an organization in the UK aiming to implement an inclusive policy regarding physical education to remove barriers for all students.

Tess Howard, founder of Inclusive Sportswear and international hockey player for Team GB, said: “A PE kit is the most underrated reason girls drop out of PE, but the good news is we can fix it – and fast.”

Hayley Jarvis, physical activity lead at Mind, added: “We believe physical activity is a powerful protective factor for young people’s mental health.”

Parents and school staff are called to join the Inclusive Sportswear community, gaining access to expert training, tools, and recommendations developed with the support of Youth Sport Trust to improve girls’ participation in physical education.

This new kit has the potential to increase girls' interest in sports and physical activity by addressing crucial issues that hinder them from maintaining an active lifestyle. Support from educators and parents may be key to the success of this initiative, which will directly impact the health and well-being of young people.