As a reader of this blog, you're probably already well versed in the exhilaration that sport brings: dropping into fresh, untracked powder lines; making a clean cutback on the early morning surf; storming down that slippery run on your mountain bike that you were sure you'd crash on; or landing that kickflip you've spent months practising: having your mind and body in tune and pushing yourself to progress is the most self rewarding thing on earth.
Now Nike Women have published a survey of 10 000 women from nine European countries, aged 16 to 30, confirming what we've always known: playing sport improves your self-esteem, perception of success, pride, sex drive and self image.
On average, half the women quizzed were involved in sport, with Germany boasting the most active young women, with 67% of the participants involved in sport, while Turkey had the least at just 41%.
But it's not just the obvious physical benefits that have girls stoked on sport - the survey also found sport makes women stronger emotionally. Of those involved in sport, 41% said they could 'conquer the world', 77% have more confidence in themselves, 77% feel successful, 85% feel self pride, while 62% have raised self esteem. Plus, 68 per cent of those ladies involved in sport, said that sport had an even bigger positive impact on their lives - in their career, education, social lives and relationships.
Conducted by independent consumer research group TNS, the online survey was carried out in The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, France, the UK, Germany, Sweden, Turkey and Russia, to gauge what drives young women to take part in sport.
For more info go to www.nikewomen.com.
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