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Should you take up walking football?
Should you take up walking football?
Walking football is a unique game that caters to all kinds of players. Whether you want to enjoy increased activity later in life, introduce yourself to a more gentle sport after injury rehabilitation or meet new people - walking football has many benefits without putting too much strain on your limbs and joints.
With no running, jogging or high-physical contact tackles, walking football is a great way to enjoy your favourite sport in a fun and safe way. In this blog we’re going to discuss exactly what walking football is, the rules of the game and what benefits it can provide.
What is walking football?
Walking football was created in 2011 by John Croot, and the biggest difference to regular football is that there’s no running. It’s usually 6-a-side and is played on smaller pitches. It’s based on association football and has a lot of similarities which is what makes it such a great sport.
It follows most of the same rules as regular football but is more restricted, for example, there are no side tackles allowed, which helps to avoid injury so people can enjoy the sport safely and with peace of mind.
Who plays walking football?
Walking football is aimed at people over the age of 50 and those who are rehabilitating from sports injuries as it’s a low-impact and safe way to enjoy physical activity. It’s very popular with women over 40 and men over 50. However, walking football has been proven as an easy way to get into the sport for people of all ages and fitness levels.
What's the aim of walking football?
The aim of walking football is to promote cardiovascular fitness whilst reducing stress on the body to ensure that all football lovers of any age or skill level can play and enjoy the game. It’s a slower and safer way for players to participate if they are unable to partake in the traditional game. There’s no emphasis on competition and these games are typically recreational events that allow new players to simply turn up and join in
What are the benefits of walking football?
Despite being an easy, low-impact sport, walking football comes with a variety of benefits. From reducing the risk of injury to being a beginner-friendly way of familiarising yourself with the rules of football. Some great benefits of walking football include:
- Smaller pitches with smaller goals
- The risk of pain, discomfort and injury is greatly reduced
- It is accessible to older players thanks to its slower pace and reduced contact.
- It is an easy way of introducing new players to the sport who may feel intimidated to dive straight into regular football rules and impact.
What are the rules of walking football?
While a lot of the rules are similar to regular football rules, such as any unsportsmanlike conduct resulting in a free kick or a red card, there have been restrictions and rules made catered specifically to walking football so that it ensures the safety of the players. A few of these rules include:
- You must have one foot on the ground at all times (to adhere to the definition of walking)
- There is no contact, any contact will be awarded with a free kick to the other team.
- Any player not walking, either on or off the ball anywhere on the pitch will result in the other team getting a free kick
- Tackling from behind or around the side is not allowed and the other team will be awarded a free kick
- Play stops immediately if a player falls or is injured
- There is no offside rule
- Heading the ball is not allowed
- The ball must never be kicked above head height
- The team must consist of 5-7 players
- There are no throw-ins, the ball is kicked or rolled
- All free kicks are indirect
Where to find a walking football club?
Walking football has become very popular in recent years and now sees thousands of teams and sessions across the country. You may find these sessions at your local club but they are most commonly held by local councils and football associations, sports centres and charities. So it is worth checking your local sports and leisure centres or council websites.
What to wear to walking football?
When you attend your first walking football match, you’ll want to make sure you have the right kit. Even if it’s typically a low-impact sport, you’ll need some gear that can offer both breathability and comfort and won’t hinder your movement. Having a good kit can ensure you don't overheat while you play as well as support your movements.
If you plan on playing walking football all year round then you’ll need to ensure you’ve got a kit to match every weather outcome. For example, in winter you’ll want to bundle up with some warm football jackets, like our men's Evolve QZ Jacket - Black that comes equipped with premium sweat-wicking materials for all-around comfort while you play.
EVOLVE QZ JACKET - BLACK - £21.95
During summer, however, you’ll need some reliable training shorts to ensure you don’t overheat while you play under the intense summer sun. Take our Women’s Classic Shorts - Navy. They offer an elasticated waistband for security but also come equipped with breezy, high-quality fabrics for unbelievable comfort and breathability to support you through both training and matches.
WOMEN’S CLASSIC SHORT - NAVY - £7.95
If you’re looking for some team kits to match your team's aesthetic then you can also browse our full team kits collection for a wide variety of styles and materials to help support you in your walking football matches and training.
Be prepared for your first walking football game with Avec Sport
Walking football is a great low-impact and beginner-friendly sport for those who are unable to participate in the traditional game. Whether you have low mobility, are recovering from a sports injury or are just looking for a way to familiarise yourself with the rules of football in a safe and controlled environment - make sure you have the right kit for your first walking football game.
From breathable materials to customisable options so you can enjoy kit with your team colours, discover everything including team kits and sportswear at Avec Sport to help support you during your exercise.