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
Football is a sport cherished by people of all age groups, and walking football is proving that even those who are over 75 can appreciate this beautiful sport. Walking football provides seniors a method to stay active, interact with others, and have fun without the physical exertion of regular football. This adapted version of the game ensures safety and accessibility, with rules prohibiting sprinting, heading, and hard tackles.
In England, walk football has gained attention as more over-75s take to the pitch. Recent competitions, 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 growing community.
Walking football isn't just about the sport; it’s about improving health, mental health, and fun in later life. The sport 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 shift in how we view ageing and sports participation.
Key Takeaways
Walk football is accessible and safe for over-75s.
The UK has seen a growth in walking football participation among seniors.
The sport supports fitness, mental health, and community among older adults.
History and Growth of Walking Football
Walking football, started in the UK, is designed primarily to seniors, offering an accessible way to enjoy football without the demands of sprinting or intense physical activity. While originally aimed at those over the age of 50, its reach has expanded across the United Kingdom and globally, even inspiring events such as the Aneurin Bevan Shield.
Origins in England
Walking football originated in 2010 in Chesterfield. This version of the game was developed for those aged 50+, enabling them to keep enjoying football in a less physically demanding form. The concept quickly gained momentum, as it allowed participants to over 75s walking football reconnect their passion for football without the risk of injuries associated with running.
A notable moment in its early days was the promotion by Barclays in 2014, which significantly boosted awareness. Through focused advertising campaigns, walk 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 the UK.
Expansion Across the UK
As walk football became more widespread in the UK, its attraction spread throughout the UK. By catering to both male players and women, the sport expanded to include players aged 60 and over, over-70s, and even women aged 40 and above. This met a increasing demand for leisure activities tailored to older adults.
Local organisations and charities, such as Age UK, played a significant role in this expansion. By offering walking football sessions in various communities, they increased accessibility to a broader audience. Clubs were established in cities across the UK, integrating walking football into their regular sports programs.
Walk football came to Blackpool in 2014 with the formation of Senior Seasiders Walking Football Club. As well as an Over-75's team, the club also runs Over-50's, Over-60's, Over-65's, and Over-70's teams and has over 100 regular players. The well-known club hosts two walking football over 75s social sessions each week, open to all, at the new Common Edge Community Sports Village.
International Recognition and Aneurin Bevan Shield
Walking football has gained global recognition, with teams forming in various countries beyond the United Kingdom. The sport’s welcoming atmosphere and health benefits resonate with seniors worldwide. To foster cross-border tournaments, 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 play and exchange knowledge.
Rules and Adaptations for Over 75s
Walking football provides an engaging way for over-75s, and even over-80s, to remain physically engaged. This variant of football has specific rules and modifications to enhance safety and accessibility for older players.
Modifications from Traditional Football
Walk football is adapted from the traditional game to adjust for older players. Key rule changes ensure it's suitable for the over-75s. Sprinting is strictly prohibited. Players must always have at least one foot touching the ground at all times, minimising the speed of play and the risk of falls.
Heading is not permitted in walking football, safeguarding players from potential concussions. Tackling is minimal and limited to safe interactions to avoid unnecessary injuries. The ball often stays at a lower level throughout the game, minimizing the chance of accidents. The pitch and goal dimensions are downsized, making the game more easier to play.