Challenges and successes in promoting gender equality through physical education and sports: a systematic review

Isikgoz M. E., Sahbudak M., Deveci M., Oztunc M.

BMC PUBLIC HEALTH, cilt.25, sa.1, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
  • Cilt numarası: 25 Sayı: 1
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1186/s12889-025-23373-0
  • Dergi Adı: BMC PUBLIC HEALTH
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, EMBASE, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, MEDLINE, Pollution Abstracts, Public Affairs Index, Veterinary Science Database, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Manisa Celal Bayar Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

BackgroundPhysical education and sport can contribute to gender equality by supporting physical, mental, and social well-being. However, persistent challenges, including social norms, gender discrimination, and structural barriers, continue to limit progress in these areas.MethodsThis study used a systematic review methodology following the PRISMA protocol. A thematic analysis of 65 relevant studies was carried out to examine the progress and ongoing challenges in advancing gender equality through physical education and sports.ResultsThe analysis indicates that educational programmes, progressive policies, and innovative teaching methods have contributed to advancing gender equality, particularly through increased representation of female athletes and leaders, who serve as influential role models. However, these positive developments face challenges, including limited resources, educators' insufficient awareness of gender issues, and the short-term nature of many interventions.ConclusionThe findings highlight the essential need for long-term systemic strategies aimed at amplifying educator awareness, fortifying women's leadership opportunities, and dismantling structural inequities. Future research must prioritize the development of culturally responsive interventions and an in-depth examination of varied socioeconomic contexts to forge more inclusive and sustainable pathways to achieving gender equality in physical education and sports.Trial registrationThe completed PRISMA checklist is provided as a supplementary file and is also available via the Figshare repository: https://figshare.com/s/a088d4ef6e3b26cfd987