One in five Victorian women currently do no physical activity. We know that a fear of judgement is the greatest barrier to getting active, with 52% of Victorian women worrying about being judged while exercising.

Held from 12 – 18 September, This Girl Can Week is a dedicated time for women to explore beginner-friendly classes and judgement-free activities in their local area.

Now in its fifth year, the This Girl Can – Victoria campaign aims to empower women to focus on how getting active feels instead of worrying what people think.

Featuring everyday women from right across Victoria, the campaign features women getting active their own way. There are no models or actors, no Instagram influencers or elite athletes - just everyday women getting active however, wherever and whenever they choose.

VicHealth’s Head of This Girl Can – Victoria, Rebecca Ahern said This Girl Can Week is an opportunity for women to try something new or get back into getting active after winter.

“We know that women are looking for ways to get out and about after Winter and enjoy the social aspects of getting active. This Girl Can Week will allow women the opportunity to connect and try this in new ways,” Ms Ahern said. 

“There will be plenty of opportunities to get involved this Spring. From bite sized fitness classes, yoga, tai chi to Bollywood dance, come along in-person or online and join other women who know ‘This Girl Can’.

“It's all about celebrating what women can do, whether that’s a walk around the block or a few laps of the pool,” she said.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said the week provided countless health benefits for women participating in the campaign.

“Getting active empowers women to feel comfortable in their bodies and in public spaces. It inspires women to shift their thinking from worrying about being judged to focusing on how they feel,” Minister Thomas said.