A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Cambridge suggests that wearing school uniforms may be associated with reduced physical activity levels among young children, particularly girls. The study, which analyzed data from over 1 million children aged 5 to 17 from 135 countries, sheds light on the potential impact of school dress codes on children's exercise habits.
According to the findings, boys were 1.5 times more likely than girls to meet the World Health Organization's recommendation of at least 60 minutes of exercise per day. However, the gap between boys and girls was nearly twice as large among younger children in areas where school uniforms are prevalent. This disparity was especially pronounced in primary school students, aged 5 to 10, suggesting that uniforms may pose barriers to physical activity, especially for girls.
Esther van Sluijs, one of the researchers involved in the study, highlighted that girls might feel less confident engaging in physical activities like cartwheels or riding bikes when wearing skirts or dresses as part of their school uniforms. This could lead to fewer opportunities for spontaneous movement and exercise during the school day, particularly for younger children who rely more on unstructured play for physical activity.
While the study does not conclusively prove that uniforms directly cause lower rates of exercise, it aligns with previous research indicating that children, especially girls, perceive uniforms as restrictive. These findings underscore the importance of considering the impact of school dress codes on children's health and well-being, and the need for policies that promote physical activity and active lifestyles in educational settings.
By raising awareness about the potential link between school uniforms and reduced physical activity, educators and policymakers can work towards creating environments that support children's overall health and development. This includes exploring alternatives to traditional uniforms that prioritize comfort and mobility, especially for young girls who may face unique challenges in staying active while adhering to dress codes.
Study Links School Uniforms to Reduced Physical Activity in Young Children, Especially Girls by Educator Hub News.