According to a survey conducted by scientists at St Mary’s University in Twickenham (2019), one in four girls worldwide quit sports in their teens for fear of leaking during their periods. With this in mind, Adidas introduced be in play, its latest training collection is specifically aimed at women to feel more safe and secure to move during menstruation.
a TechFit Period Proof Leggings and Shorts Line Come with an additional absorbent layer that helps protect against leakage – during exercise – when used with a sink or absorbent. There are three layers: first remover, second absorbent and third leak-proof.
The launch is part of the path the brand has taken to revolutionize its product offering and meet the needs of all menstruating people in sports. The long-standing campaign behind this initiative, Watch Us Move, is another example of how Adidas is challenging the rules and launching initiatives for its women’s community, following its philosophy that sport is for all. And life can change.
According to the brand, to envision the TechFit Period Proof Collection, the first step was to understand what physical, emotional and social barriers prevent sports participation and reduce women’s safety to keep going during their cycle.
Analyzing data from more than 14,000 athletes, it was found that even those considered “cutting edge” in their sport did not learn about menstruation in sport, either at school or with their coaches. – or not discussed. In the UK, 82.3% of participants indicated that they never received an explanation about their menstrual cycle in terms of sports or exercise, and of those who had a coach, 81.5% never spoke to them about their cycle. Didn’t. In the US, 65.3% did not receive education on the subject and 75.8% did not discuss the menstrual cycle with their instructor. 1
Globally, Adidas has gone even further and aims to raise awareness, improve education, and dispel taboos around menstruation – a topic that has been lurking among teens and adults alike. With insights from coaches and athletes, the brand has also collaborated with Dr. Georgie Bruinwells and Orreco to create free lesson plans and resources that will benefit schools around the world.
