Blending exercise with friendship and fun, our sessions are proving a lifeline for people aged 50 and over across the city. As Isabel, an Age UK Norwich Health Coach, explained on the programme, walking football keeps the essence of the game while making it accessible: “It pretty much is football, but there are some slightly different rules… you must always have one foot on the ground and the ball mustn’t get kicked higher than anyone’s head.”
The slower pace is exactly what makes it so effective. Open to anyone over 50, our group includes players ranging from newly retired participants to those in their 80s. “It’s a great way for them to keep mobile, keep sociable, just keep your mind active,” Isabel said.
The BBC feature highlighted the benefits that go far beyond physical health. The structure of the sessions – warm-up, match play, and time for tea and chat – creates a welcoming environment, especially for those who may feel nervous about joining new groups. “You’re interacting socially with people, but it’s not free form… it’s easy to follow a pattern,” Isabel explained. “And then afterwards, there’s half an hour tea and chat.”
Regular attendees spoke warmly about the impact our club has had on their lives.
Alan, who has been attending for around four years, said: “I can’t necessarily play normal football anymore, so I found this and it’s great… it’s more than just football. We all have a great laugh… about 20 odd of us from different walks of life… and we just have a good time.”
For Mark, it captures something even simpler: “It’s just like being a kid again… having a kick about on the park. No pressure. No aggro.”
Others are drawn in by the social side. Kevin, who is new to our club, said: “That’s more why I’m here – the social aspect rather than actually winning any cups… if you stop work, you lose track of people and you need to make a new social network.”
That sense of connection is echoed across the group. Terry highlighted the “camaraderie and activity and exercise,” while Pat described it as “a good bunch of people… it gets you out during the day.” The friendships often extend beyond the pitch too, with members meeting socially throughout the year.
Importantly, our sessions are inclusive and open to all, regardless of experience. Debbie, a long-time participant, encourages anyone to give it a try: “Anyone, women or men, who have either played football before… or people who’ve never really played football before and just want to come and have an enjoyable morning.”
For many, the impact on wellbeing is immediate and visible. Isabel describes it as the “walking football grin” – the unmistakable smile participants leave with after each session.
At Age UK Norwich, we see first-hand the difference this makes. From improved mobility to boosted confidence and new friendships, the impact is clear.
As one player simply put it: “It’s great fun… especially when you score loads of goals.”
Listen to the interview here: BBC radio Norfolk interview Age UK Norwich’s walking football club for its Team Talks