Could walking football improve your health?

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, it’s never been a better time to get involved in football. 

If you’re older, have limited mobility, or suffer from a long-term health condition or disability, you may think that your football-playing days are over – but think again. 

Believe it or not, the beautiful game is now more accessible than ever, thanks to a new sporting phenomenon sweeping the UK: walking football. 

What is walking football?

You may well be wondering: what is walking football? 

Walking football is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a variant of regular football, where players walk rather than run. 

The rules also allow either no contact or minimal physical contact between players. 

The sport first came to the nation’s attention in 2014 when a Barclay’s TV advert introduced walking football to our screens. 

It’s aimed at the over 50s age group, although many tournaments are now catering specifically for those aged 60 and above. 

It was developed to help people get fit and maintain an active lifestyle, regardless of age, ability, or fitness level. 

What are the benefits of walking football?

Walking football is a great way of staying mobile and healthy. Today, men and women all over the country are reaping the benefits. 

Facts about aerobic activity

The NHS recommends that adults aged 65 and over aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. Walking football is a fun way to incorporate exercise into your weekly routine, while having an opportunity to socialise at the same time. 

It can also improve balance; develop core strength; and help manage or reduce your weight. 

Walking football also offers a host of psychological advantages and can have a positive impact on your mental health. 

Many of these benefits can be obtained through other forms of exercise, such as going for a walk or a swim. However, walking football also offers a host of psychological advantages and can have a positive impact on your mental health. 

A key element of football is working as part of a team, and walking football is no different. It’s a fantastic way to reduce loneliness, encourage socialisation, and help people rediscover – or discover for the first time – the joys of football. 

Playing with others also gives people a chance to make new friends, develop new skills, and feel part of the wider community. For many people, the trip to the pub after a game is as beneficial as playing the game itself.

I’d like to give it a try – how can I get involved with a walking football team?

Walking football teams cater to all abilities. Whether you regularly have a kick-about with the grandkids or you haven’t been near a football pitch in years, you’re sure to be welcomed onto your local team. 

If you’d like to give walking football a go, this website lets you find your local clubs.

You could also try contacting your local Age UK branch or using Google to search for walking football clubs in your area. 

How to recover after a walking football game 

Like any form of physical activity, it’s important to rest afterwards. Walking football puts added pressure on your leg muscles and joints, making it essential for your body to recover. 

Your comfort at home plays a big part in recovery time. At Oak Tree Mobility, our adjustable beds and rise and recline chairs are designed to support the body from head to toe, helping you relax after a game. Plus, our bath lift allows a gentle transfer into the tub, where warm water can soothe tired muscles. 

After all, nothing should hold you back from getting back out on the pitch.