October 1 marks the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons, and also the start of Football Australia’s Seniors Football Week!
Seniors Football Week will run from October 1 all the way to October 10, ending on World Mental Health Day.
Seniors Football Week will shine a light on our older population in Australia, and encourage them to take part in and enjoy the benefits of football, and more specifically Walking Football.
There are many benefits to Walking Football, not just from a physical perspective, but also from a social and mental health point of view.
Walking Football is a small-sided, low-impact, modified version of the game, suitable for all levels of ability and fitness, from people who are returning to sport after a break or those who’ve never played before.
- It is low-impact, team-based exercise, utilising the defined ‘Walking Football Rules and Formats’ specifically non-contact with the players ‘always having one foot on the ground’.
- The program focuses on passing rather than speed/running. Matches are played with modified formats (5v5/6v6) on smaller pitches with shortened game times
- Delivered through the Hub format, the Walking Football Program ensures the environment is inclusive, fun, engaging for both new and returning players.
Walking Football aims to provide participants physical & mental health benefits, social connectedness and promotion of the benefits of ongoing physical activity.
You can l, including how to get involved within your local association.
