Over 75's Walking Football: A Guide to Senior Fitness and Fun
Over 75's Walking Football: A Guide to Senior Fitness and Fun
Blog Article
Soccer is a sport cherished by people of all age groups, and walking football is demonstrating that even those who are over 75 can enjoy this beloved game. Walk football offers older adults a way to remain active, socialise, and enjoy themselves without the intense physical demands of regular football. This modified form of the game ensures safety and accessibility, with rules banning running, head play, and tackles with heavy contact.
In England, walk football has gained attention as more over-75s join the field. Recent tournaments, like the inaugural over-75s league in Greater Manchester, highlight the camaraderie and spirit among participants who believe 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 commitment present in this expanding community.
Walking football isn't just about the sport; it’s about improving health, well-being, and fun in later life. The sport addresses both physical fitness and emotional health, providing a important outlet for seniors seeking to maintain an active lifestyle. The rise of walk football among older generations signals an exciting evolution in how we perceive ageing and sports participation.
Key Takeaways
Walk football is available and safe for over-75s.
England has seen a growth in walking football participation among older adults.
The game supports fitness, well-being, and community among seniors.
History and Growth of Walking Football
Walk football, started in the UK, caters primarily to older adults, offering an accessible way to enjoy football without the requirements of sprinting or intense physical activity. While initially aimed at those over the age of 50, its reach has expanded across the UK and internationally, even leading to events such as the Aneurin Bevan Tournament.
Origins in England
Walk football began in 2010 in Chesterfield, England. This adaptation of the game was developed for those aged 50+, enabling them to keep enjoying football in a low-impact form. The idea rapidly gained traction, as it allowed participants to reconnect their passion for football without the risk of injuries associated with running.
A important moment in its early growth was the sponsorship by Barclays in 2014, which significantly boosted awareness. Through focused advertising campaigns, walk football became well-known among communities, further encouraging people to participate. This increased participation helped cement walking football's place as a viable recreational activity in the UK.
Expansion Across the UK
As walking football grew in popularity in England, its attraction extended throughout the UK. By catering to both men and women, the game grew to include players aged 60 and over, over-70s, and even women aged 40 and above. This met a increasing demand for recreational sports tailored to older adults.
Local groups and nonprofits, such as Age UK, played a significant role in this growth. By organizing walking football sessions in multiple communities, they increased accessibility to a wider audience. Teams were established in cities across the UK, incorporating walk 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 active members. The well-known club hosts two social sessions each week, open to all, at the new Blackpool’s Common Edge Sports Village.
International Recognition and Aneurin Bevan Shield
Walking football has gained global recognition, with teams forming in various countries beyond the UK. The game’s welcoming atmosphere and health benefits appeal with older populations worldwide. To promote international competition, events such as the Aneurin Bevan Cup have been introduced.
The Bevan Shield, an annual tournament, honours the spirit of walk 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 squads together from different countries to play and share best practices.
Rules and Adaptations for Over 75s
Walk football provides an engaging way for over-75s, and even over-80s, to remain physically engaged. This adaptation of football has specific rules and modifications to ensure safety and accessibility for older players.
Modifications from Traditional Football
Walk 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 forbidden. Players must keep one foot on the ground at all times, minimising the pace of play and the risk of falls.
Heading the ball is not permitted in walk football, safeguarding players from potential head injuries. Tackling is light and limited to safe interactions to avoid unnecessary injuries. The ball often stays at a lower more info level throughout the game, minimizing the chance of mishaps. The pitch and goal sizes are smaller than standard, making the game more easier to play.