New research has found that leisure-time physical activity can provide important opportunities for survivors of violence against women to rebuild confidence, regain a sense of control and reduce isolation.

The study, led by UWS, explored physical activity providers’ approaches to supporting the wellbeing of survivors of violence against women.

Violence against women is any form of violence disproportionately perpetrated by men against women and girls, including sexual violence, domestic abuse, stalking and harassment.

Scottish Government statistics for 2024-2025 highlight that 81 percent of domestic abuse incidents involved a female victim and a male suspected perpetrator. In England and Wales, an estimated 2.2 million women aged 16 and above experienced violence against women in the year ending March 2025.

The research found that activities including dance, cycling, football, self-defence, aerial activity (such as aerial fitness or suspended exercise) and somatic exercises (including yoga, tai chi and meditation) can create supportive spaces where survivors can develop new physical skills, strengthen confidence and connect with others.

A key finding was the importance of choice, safety and confidentiality. Practitioners described adapting activities around participants’ needs, allowing people to stop or take breaks, and creating environments where survivors could participate without having to disclose or discuss their experiences.

However, cost remains a significant barrier. The study found that free provision, alongside support with travel, childcare and equipment, can make participation more accessible. At the same time, providers themselves face funding pressures that can limit the availability and continuity of programmes.

Our research highlights how leisure-time physical activity can offer survivors of violence against women more than just the opportunity to be active. When activities are safe, inclusive and shaped around participants’ needs, they can help survivors rebuild confidence, regain a sense of control and develop meaningful connections with others. Providing choice, confidentiality and trauma-informed support is key to creating spaces where survivors feel comfortable participating at their own pace.

Nicoleta Ciubotariu, University of the West of Scotland 

The research paper included direct quotations from providers of physical activity classes and women support services practitioners, highlighting their experiences and perspectives.

One of these accounts includes Taylor, who said: “If it has involved rape or sexual abuse, there is a lot of shame, isolation and disconnection. Some people totally disconnect from their bodies. To reconnect with that and to reconnect with other people is why I love groups.”

Pat said: “I always say, ‘Don’t come to class when you’re happy. You’ve had this wonderful day, a sparkling day. What are you doing here? You’ve had a bad day? That’s when I need you to turn up, because I know we can lift each other up. If you feel tired, depressed, upset or overwhelmed, that’s when you have to come.’”

Brook said: “We encourage [chatting and coffee] because I think if you know someone else has been through the same thing, it will help your recovery. Laughter is one of the best medicines you can get and having that funny element is something we put into here.”

Lead researcher Nicoleta Ciubotariu said: “Our research highlights how leisure-time physical activity can offer survivors of violence against women more than just the opportunity to be active. When activities are safe, inclusive and shaped around participants’ needs, they can help survivors rebuild confidence, regain a sense of control and develop meaningful connections with others. Providing choice, confidentiality and trauma-informed support is key to creating spaces where survivors feel comfortable participating at their own pace.”

The study concludes that leisure-time physical activity can complement existing support for survivors by promoting three key elements of wellbeing: competence, autonomy and relatedness. The findings also highlight the potential value of survivor-only or women-only sessions, confidential provision and trauma-informed approaches in creating safer and more accessible opportunities to participate.

This research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.