Research summary
Despite the well-known health benefits of sport, women and girls remain underrepresented across nearly every level and role in the sports world. Dr. Tara-Leigh McHugh, Canada Research Chair in Gender Equity in Sport and Physical Activity, aims to change that.
McHugh and her research team are exploring the psychosocial factors that shape women’s and girls’ experiences of their bodies in sport—a long-overlooked barrier to participation. They are taking a community-based, action-oriented approach to co-creating evidence-based policies and best practices with athletes, coaches and sport organizations. McHugh is also building an internationally recognized network to connect experts and transform sport systems in Canada and beyond. This research will help ensure that women and girls can participate fully, safely and confidently in all aspects of sport, from the grassroots to elite levels.