5 Outdoor Sports That Burn Serious Calories [sidebar] Title IX didn’t specify that schools had to provide equal opportunity for sports, but that’s largely how it’s been interpreted. And the impact of the law, which was signed by Richard Nixon on June 23, 1972, stretches well beyond the playing field. Because of it, at least two generations of women have grown up with the confidence and strength that come with playing organized sports—research shows that female athletes exhibit higher levels of self-esteem, less depression, higher graduation rates, and better body image. 7 ‘Scary’ Workouts You Have to TryPerhaps the best part? Girls who grow up playing sports are far more likely to be physically active as adults. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Title IX, espnW has created a site packed with news, history, and information about the law and some of the most notable athletes who grew up under its influence. You can read about the top 40 female athletes of the past 40 years (think Mary Lou Retton and Venus Williams), and even upload your own photo to join a digital photo mosaic. It’s great motivation to go out and get moving—knowing that now, all girls have that chance. Find a Workout