Introduction to GBA Plus

Youth fitness case study

Factor 3: GBA Plus / Age

How do Jean-Philippe and Meera fit into the picture?

The information needs to be analyzed further from a GBA Plus perspective to determine why the drop-off rates are higher for teenage girls.

Meera may encounter barriers common to many adolescent girls such as competition and teasing. These are more pronounced at this age, because of stronger gender expectations.


To counter increased drop-off rates among adolescent girls, stakeholders (girls of this age) suggest:

To counter increased drop-off rates among adolescent girls, stakeholders (girls of this age) suggest:

  • Focusing more on girl-centered recreational activities (e.g. provide an option for high-level girls hockey)
  • Focusing less on individual performance in front of peers
  • Including more activities that involve music
  • Including and equally valuing activities in gym class at which girls tend to excel (e.g. flexibility, balance, fine motor skills)