If you’d like to be more active in a sociable environment but you aren’t as fit as you used to be, or perhaps age, injury or a long term health condition means you need to take it a bit easier, walking sports could be ideal for you.
Walking sports are simply versions of sports like football, netball, or cricket that have the same rules as the standard game, but the players taking part walk instead of run.
Whether you want to get back to the sports your loved, or you want to start playing for the first time, walking sports offer an accessible version of standard sports. Some groups are targeted particularly to older adults, but others welcome a wider age range.
There are many different version of sports that offer ‘walking versions’ but we’re highlighting some of the more popular sports below, and where you can get involved in Lincolnshire.
Walking Netball
Walking Netball is a slower version of the game; it is netball, but at a walking pace. The game has been designed so that anyone can play it regardless of age or fitness level. From those who have dropped out of the sport they love due to serious injury, to those who believed they had hung up their netball trainers many years ago, it really is for everyone.
Find out more:
Walking Netball on England Netball’s website
Walking Netball in Lincolnshire
Walking Football
Walking Football is a relatively new format of football aimed at encouraging older adults to play again, on a regular basis. The game comprises of the same rules as standard football, except players are not permitted to run. This includes with the ball or off the ball, and includes jogging. You can ‘walk’ as fast as you want and walking as described in the rules is “one foot must be in contact with the ground at all times.”
One other big difference to association or 5-a-side football is that it’s classed as non-contact sport. Although tackling is allowed, this must be done with no contact.
As a result, the game relies less on physical attributes such as speed, power and stamina – and more on accurate passing, good positional play and strong tactical knowledge.
Find out more:
Walking Football – Lincolnshire FA
The Walking Football Association
Walking Cricket
Walking Cricket is a slower paced, indoor format of the game ideal for men and women aged 50 plus (and/or those with a medical condition). Walking Cricket is the perfect way to remain involved with the game, or equally can be a great new activity to take up to stay active. Like other walking sports, it also provides a great opportunity to meet new people and be sociable as well as allowing you to keep fit and healthy.
Find out more:
Lincolnshire Cricket – Walking Cricket
Walking Tennis
Walking tennis is a safe, fun and inclusive way of getting active on a tennis court. It’s a game that’s open to anybody. Whether you’re a lifelong tennis player, you’re new to the sport or if you just need a bit more time, you can give the game a go in a supportive setting.
Because age isn’t a barrier for walking tennis players, it provides another way for older people to keep their mind and body active on the court – while also enjoying the social side of being part of a tennis venue. Walking Tennis is for anyone that wants to play tennis, but at their own pace. It’s ideal for those who:
- Are just starting out and want to build up their confidence
- Are returning from an injury
- Just need a bit more time getting to the ball
Local Clubs offering walking tennis include: