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 game cherished by individuals of all ages, and walk football is demonstrating 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 have fun without the physical exertion of regular football. This adapted version of the game ensures safety and accessibility, with rules banning 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 team spirit and spirit among participants who believe that no age is too old for football. Individuals like Geoff Martel, an motivational captain for the England over-75 team, highlight the passion and dedication present in this expanding community.
Walking football isn't just about playing; it’s about improving health, mental health, and fun in later life. The sport addresses both physical fitness and mental well-being, providing a important outlet for seniors seeking to sustain an active lifestyle. The increase of walking football among older generations signals an exciting shift in how we perceive ageing and sports participation.
Key Takeaways
Walk football is accessible and secure for over-75s.
The UK has seen a rise in walking football participation among older adults.
The sport promotes fitness, well-being, and social interaction among older adults.
History and Growth of Walking Football
Walking football, introduced in the UK, caters primarily to older adults, providing an inclusive way to play football without the requirements of running or intense physical activity. While originally aimed at those over the age of 50, its reach has spread across the United Kingdom and globally, even inspiring events such as the Aneurin Bevan Shield.
Origins in England
Walk football began in 2010 in Chesterfield, England. This adaptation of the sport was designed for men over 50, enabling them to keep enjoying football in a low-impact form. The idea rapidly gained traction, as it enabled participants to 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 greatly increased awareness. Through targeted advertising campaigns, walking football became popular among communities, further encouraging people to participate. This increased 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 attraction extended throughout the UK. By catering to both male players and female participants, the sport expanded to include over-60s, over-70s, and even women aged 40 and above. This met a increasing demand for leisure activities tailored to seniors.
Local groups and charities, such as Age UK, played a significant role in this expansion. By organizing walk football sessions in various communities, they made the sport more accessible to a wider audience. Clubs were established in towns across the UK, integrating walking football into their regular sports programs.
Walk football came to Blackpool, England in 2014 with the formation of Senior Seasiders Walking Football Club. As well as walking football over 75s 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 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 international attention, with teams being established in various countries beyond the UK. The sport’s welcoming atmosphere and physical advantages resonate with seniors worldwide. To foster international competition, events such as the Aneurin Bevan Cup have been introduced.
The Aneurin Bevan Shield, an yearly competition, celebrates the essence of walking football while honouring Aneurin Bevan, a notable personality in welfare state history. This competition has cemented walking football's status on the global stage, bringing squads together from different countries to play and share best practices.
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 regulations and adaptations to ensure safety and accessibility for older players.
Modifications from Traditional Football
Walk football is adapted from the over 75s walking football conventional game to cater for senior participants. Key rule changes guarantee 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, reducing the pace of play and the chance of falls.
Heading the ball is not permitted in walk football, safeguarding players from potential head injuries. Defending is minimal and limited to safe interactions to avoid unnecessary physical harm. The ball often remains at a controlled height throughout the game, minimizing the chance of accidents. The field and goal dimensions are smaller than standard, making the game more easier to play.