Islam is the primary religion of Iran and much of the Middle East. The Islamic religion has many beliefs just like most other religions. Many of these norms especially concern women. In the Islamic religion, an important principle is that a woman's body, a symbol of sexuality, should be covered (Pfister 12). This rule, along with other beliefs, makes it particularly difficult for Islamic women to participate in sports or athletics. There are many countries besides Iran that are experiencing the same dilemma of girls wanting to play a sport, but it is looked down upon by the community. Even in America, until the creation of Title IX, women's sports were often considered less significant than men's. Sports teams in the West were often underfunded and unequal (Kristof and WuDonn). Although there is no ban on women's sports and health and fitness are indeed emphasized in Iran, women rarely choose to participate in sports (Pfister 12). Whenever practicing or playing sports, Islamic laws must be followed. This includes the fact that men and women must practice separately and that women's bodies must be covered (Pfister 12). They must practice separately because Muslims believe that sex should be preserved until marriage. To ensure that no one breaks this principle, they like to get rid of any temptation or possibility. Men can practice anywhere; however, women can practice in two places: private facilities separate from men, or public facilities where they must wear appropriate clothing and behave accordingly. The problem is that private facilities are not easily found, and even if you can find one they are usually found in wealthier areas because that's who can afford them (Pfister 14). Like one... middle of the paper... once this statement is true. While it is good that Iran is the “leading Muslim nation for women's sports,” women's participation in sports still has a long way to go. Other Muslim nations must be in even worse shape when it comes to women's involvement in sport. Iranian women, and women all over the world, need sport in their lives. Sports are an essential part of staying fit and also gaining life skills such as confidence and leadership. Sports, in addition to education, will help end the suffering of women. Solutions like education and athletics help empower women. Furthermore, they provide women with knowledge that can help them lead a better life and ultimately ensure a better future for the country. It should be allowed for anyone, regardless of gender, race, religion, etc. to participate in sport. Above all, women should not be discriminated against.