Walking Football for Over 75s: Your Guide to Staying Fit and Having Fun in Later Life
Walking Football for Over 75s: Your Guide to Staying Fit and Having Fun in Later Life
Blog Article
Football is a sport cherished by people of all ages, and walk football is proving that even those who are over 75 can enjoy this beloved game. Walk football offers older adults a way to stay active, interact with others, and enjoy themselves without the intense physical demands of traditional football. This modified form of the sport guarantees safety and accessibility, with rules prohibiting running, head play, and tackles with heavy contact.
In the UK, walking football has become popular as more over-75s take to the pitch. Recent competitions, like the inaugural over-75s league in Greater Manchester, highlight the camaraderie and enthusiasm among players who show that no age is too old for football. Figures like Geoff Martel, an motivational captain for the England over-75 team, highlight the enthusiasm and dedication present in this growing community.
Walk football isn't just about playing; it’s about improving health, mental health, and enjoyment in later life. The game addresses both physical fitness and emotional health, providing a valuable outlet for seniors seeking to sustain an active lifestyle. The increase of walking football among older generations marks an exciting evolution in how we perceive ageing and sports participation.
Key Takeaways
Walk football is available and safe for over-75s.
The UK has seen a rise in walk football participation among seniors.
The game supports health, mental health, and community among seniors.
History and Growth of Walking Football
Walking football, started in England, caters primarily to seniors, offering an inclusive way to play soccer without the demands of sprinting or intense physical activity. While initially aimed at those aged 50 and above, its reach has expanded across the United Kingdom and internationally, even leading to events such as the Aneurin Bevan Shield.
Origins in England
Walking football began in 2010 in Chesterfield. This version of the sport was designed for those aged 50+, enabling them to continue playing football in a less physically demanding form. The idea rapidly gained traction, as it allowed participants to rediscover their passion for football without the danger of injuries associated with running.
A important moment in its early growth was the sponsorship by Barclays in 2014, which greatly increased awareness. Through targeted advertising campaigns, walking football became well-known among neighborhoods, prompting more people to participate. This greater participation helped cement walking football's place as a viable sports option in England.
Expansion Across the UK
As walking football grew in popularity in England, its appeal extended throughout the UK. By appealing to both male players and women, the sport expanded to include players aged 60 and over, over-70s participants, and even female players aged 40 and above. This met a increasing demand for leisure activities tailored to seniors.
Local organisations and charities, such as Age UK, played a significant role in this growth. By organizing walk football sessions in multiple communities, they increased accessibility to a broader audience. Teams were established in towns across the UK, integrating walking football into their regular sports programs.
Walking Football came to Blackpool, England in 2014 with the formation of Senior Seasiders Walking Football Club. As well as an Over-75's team, the club also manages Over-50's, Over-60's, Over-65's, and Over-70's teams and has over 100 regular players. The popular club hosts two recreational sessions each week, welcoming to all players, at the new Common Edge Community Sports Village.
International Recognition and Aneurin Bevan Shield
Walk football has more info gained global recognition, with teams forming in numerous countries beyond the United Kingdom. The game’s welcoming atmosphere and health benefits appeal with seniors worldwide. To foster international competition, events such as the Aneurin Bevan Shield have been launched.
The Aneurin Bevan Shield, an yearly competition, celebrates the essence of walking football while paying tribute to Aneurin Bevan, a key figure in welfare state history. This tournament has helped solidify walking football's status on the world sports scene, bringing teams together from across the world to compete and share best practices.
Rules and Adaptations for Over 75s
Walk football offers an inclusive way for over-75s, and even over-80s, to stay active. This adaptation of football has specific rules and modifications to enhance safety and accessibility for seniors.
Modifications from Traditional Football
Walking football is modified from the traditional game to cater for senior participants. Key rule changes ensure it's suitable for the over-75s. Sprinting is strictly prohibited. Players must always have at least one foot touching over 75s walking football the ground at all times, reducing the speed of play and the chance of falls.
Heading the ball is not allowed in walk football, protecting players from potential concussions. Tackling is minimal and only involves reduced contact to avoid unnecessary injuries. The ball often stays at a lower level throughout the game, lowering the chance of mishaps. The field and goal sizes are smaller than standard, making the game more easier to play.