Over 55s walking their way to healthy outcomes
Published on 22 February 2024
A recent study has found walking sports such as walking football can boost health and wellbeing for people over the age of 55.
The 2023 Deakin University and Football Victoria study surveyed players over the age of 55 and explored how walking football contributed to their health and wellbeing.
Of the 42 people who participated in the survey, 88.1 percent felt satisfied with their health since they took up walking football and felt that the game improved their mood.
The weekly walking football program helped players learn new skills while being physically active in a gentle game, with 90.5 percent of survey participants satisfied with their game skill improvement.
Some players even sought additional physical activities to continue maintaining their health, skills and confidence.
Walking football can also have positive impacts on social health by providing opportunities to build social skills and long-term friendships. Almost 80 percent of survey participants felt satisfied with being part of a community and 74 percent said walking football was the highlight of their week.
Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Kylie Spears, encouraged residents to get involved.
“Taking part in regular physical activity can help improve mental health, maintain muscle mass and flexibility, and can also be a great way to make new friends.
“There are various low-impact and walking sports on offer in Maroondah. These sports provide opportunities for players to move regularly in a safe, fun way, so they are great for older residents or those who are returning to sport after a break. I encourage our community to give them a try,” Cr Spears said.
Want to get involved?
Walking sports are versions of sports that follow the rules of the standard game, but the players walk instead of run, and there is no physical contact or tackling. The games are offered in a friendly, non-competitive environment, where the emphasis is on movement and socialisation.
Low-impact and walking sport programs in Maroondah include:
- Pickleball
- Badminton
- Table tennis
- Walking cricket
- Walking football
- Walking netball
Find out more about low-impact and walking sports in Maroondah.