Rethinking sport for women

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ith warriors like the Lionesses leading the charge, we can all agree that women’s football has come a long way. But what about the other activities we still think of as ‘men’s sports’? Did you know that the first cricket world cup was actually played by women? Or that women have been mountaineering since 1908? We take a look at some of the sports welcoming women with open arms – and how you can get involved

It might have a rep as a dude’s sport but women’s surfing reportedly dates back to the 17th century, when the board was found in the burial cave of Princess Kaneamuna.

Get Involved
Women + Waves offers courses for all levels, welcoming everyone from complete beginners to wannabe instructors. Courses are run worldwide from Newquay to Morocco.

With the Women’s Hundred competition receiving record-breaking attendance and viewing figures, and a 33% increase in women’s and girl’s teams since 2019, cricket is becoming big news.

Get Involved
More than 1,000 UK clubs now offer women and girls a chance to play. Find your nearest club and learn more and connect on Instagram with We Got Game.

The first women’s rugby team was founded by Edinburgh University in 1962. It’s now one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, with an estimated 2.7 million players.

Get Involved
Many clubs welcome girls and women. Find out more at Girls Rugby Club, foundedby England international Rachael Burford, or at England Rugby.

Women are discovering the power of pumping iron. Think stronger muscles, bones and joints, better heart health and a sense of empowerment that no cross-trainer can match.

Get Involved
StrongHer, London’s first women-only gym, and Total Fitness offer ladies-only weights areas in selected health clubs.

One of the first Olympic sports to include a women’s event, archery has long been a leading light for female sports participation. With Brits Phoebe Paterson Pine and Ella Gibson taking top spots in the world rankings in 2022, it’s on the rise.

Get Involved
Archery GB offers courses, weekly training and events for all levels. Project Rimaya aims to attract British South Asians, especially girls and women.

Thanks to the high profiles of Katie Taylor, Ramla Ali and British boxer of the year (and mum) Natasha Jonas, women’s boxing is finally enjoying some serious time in the spotlight.

Get Involved
Keen to glove up and start sparring? England Boxing will arm you with the intel you need and can direct you to your nearest club or gym. If fighting isn’t your thing then many clubs are offering non-contact sessions. The Women’s Boxing Club in Birmingham is a beginner-friendly club for women.

From Jasmin Paris winning the 2019 Spine Race while breastfeeding to Denise Zimmermann finishing as overall champion at the Swiss Irontrail, female trail runners are doing some pretty extraordinary things.

Get Involved
Trails aren’t all about rocky mountain passes. At its heart, trail running is about getting off-road and enjoying nature. That could mean a local nature reserve or a towpath – get creative with it. If you do decide to conquer those hills, Girls on Hills offers guided runs and courses in the Scottish Highlands.