Walking football

Walking football is a variant of association football that is aimed at keeping people aged over 50 involved with football if, due to a lack of mobility or for other reason, they are not able to play the traditional game. The sport can be played both indoors and outdoors.[1] Walking football was devised,in the 1930s by Steve Bloomer of Derby county . Coverage of a walking football session on Sky Sports News and a documentary aired on Sky Sports Football in October 2017, led to several other clubs taking up this version of the game.[2][3] It has since become a current craze.[4][5]

Though based on association football, the key difference in the rules, from standard football, is that if a player runs then they concede a free kick to the other side.[6][7] This restriction, together with a ban on slide tackles, is aimed both at avoiding injuries and facilitating the playing of the sport by those who are physically disadvantaged.[8][7] The manner in which the sport is played promotes cardiovascular fitness whilst producing the least stress on the body.[9] It also helps participants maintain an active lifestyle.[10] In walking football the game was originally played without goalkeepers (though goalkeepers now play in some variations) and, crucially, the ball must never be kicked above hip height.[11] Different footballs are used in the indoor and the outdoor variations of the sport. When played indoors, a size 4 futsal ball is used. Outdoor games involve a traditional football. The size of the pitch can vary to suit different locations. The length should be from 20 to 40 yards and the width between 15 and 30 yards.[12]

The sport came to wider public attention in July 2014, when Barclays Bank aired a television advertisement featuring walking football to promote their services.[13]

The Governing Body Of walking football is the FA Football Association, Games are played to the FA laws of walking football