Benefits of Sport

The benefits of participation in sport and physical activity for LGBTIQ+ people are consistent with those experienced by the broader population, including benefits to physical, mental, and social wellbeing. ^{1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 44}

Sports organisations can also gain from LGBTIQ+ inclusion through greater diversity in viewpoints, decision making, and leadership, new ideas for strategies and programs, and increased membership, volunteer, and fan bases. ^{2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11}

Many LGBTIQ+ people understand the potential benefits of sport, and want to be more involved, but they need sport environments to be enjoyable, safe, and welcoming. ^{1, 2, 7, 10, 12, 13}

There are limitations to the type and amount of research available to identify and maximise specific benefits for people with diverse sexuality and genders. This is especially true for individuals from smaller groups (e.g. transgender or non-binary), or that factor in intersectional considerations (e.g. socio-economic, cultural, disability). There remains a need for more high-quality research to better understand and maximise the benefits of sport for all. ^{14, 15, 16, 17}

Impact

See more on this topic:

• Overview
• Benefits of Sport
• Factors influencing participation
• Policies, programs, and supporting structures
• Awards and recognition