Indeed, while the study found a direct link between women’s levels of activity and their state of mind – with 52% saying they felt happier while exercising – it also found that over half of women decreased their activity levels or dropped out of sport altogether as they grew older, meaning they are missing out on the benefits.

After asking women about the barriers that stopped them from exercising as much as they’d like, the team behind the study split the barriers into three groups: emotional, environmental and practical.

The most common barriers women reported were practical – with having too many other commitments (76%) and not having enough time (74%) at the top. 62% also said the cost of gyms and coaches stood in the way of their fitness goals, while 43% said a lack of safe spaces was a barrier.

While it’s frustrating to learn just how many women are unable to do the exercise they want to, it’s hardly surprising to learn that so many are struggling to find the time. Research from Stylist’s insights agency Think Stylist published last year found that 87% of women are feeling the pressure of time to achieve everything they want in life – leading to many of us feeling like time is working against us.

Gender exercise gap: almost 60% of UK women want to exercise more – and this is the main barrier standing in their way