Inspired by the recent Premier League excitement or the tension of FIFA World Cup qualifiers, many might feel the urge to get back on the pitch and enjoy some Walking Football benefits.
While a call-up to the England squad might be a distant dream, a more accessible and equally rewarding option exists: walking football. This increasingly popular sport offers all the thrill of the beautiful game, but without the intensity or pressure.
Between 2021 and 2023, Age UK partnered with Sport England and the Football Association to establish the Age UK Walking Football Programme. This initiative has led to a proliferation of local walking football games, clubs, and sessions now running across the UK every week, making it easier than ever to join.
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“It’s a slower, more gentle version of the game that everyone loves because when players are moving around the pitch they are walking rather than running,” explains Alison Ingram, programme director at Age UK. “Anyone can get involved, irrespective of their ability or experience.
“It’s much more accessible, particularly for people with long-term conditions, who are a bit older, have dementia or have had a fall and are trying to build up their confidence again.”
Walking Football Benefits
Here are six reasons why you should take up walking football later in life…
1. It’s inclusive
“Football is a really great leveller compared to lots of other activities. Lots of people aren’t aware of what activities such as Tai Chi or Zumba involve, but most people have some understanding of what football is,” says Ingram.
She highlights how walking football attracts people from lots of different backgrounds and ages.
“All sorts of people – men, women, people who are in their 50s, people who are in their 80s – come to our walking football sessions,” says Ingram. “We also have players who have specific conditions, such as people who are living with dementia, people living with Parkinson’s and even people who have recently had a stroke.
“All our players and volunteers are really encouraging and cheer people on, particularly when they first start.”
2. Provides the opportunity to build friendships
“We’re really pleased that word of mouth about our walking football sessions has spread so quickly and we often find that once one person joins, their friends and family members start to come along too,” says Ingram.
“It provides people with the opportunity to get to know people they would never otherwise have crossed paths with and we know that lots of people have developed great friendships from being part of these groups.”
3. Keeps you active…
4. Sharpens your decision-making skills…
5. Helps improve balance and coordination…
6. Boosts confidence…
Many local Age UK services across the country host welcoming Walking Football sessions and other activity groups. To find out what’s going on in your area, visit Age Uk or call the Age UK Advice Line on 0800 169 6565.
READ FULL STORY at source: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/walking-football-league-benefits-age-uk-b2947148.html
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Author: The Walking Football
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