Walking Soccer

Walking soccer is a variant of traditional soccer, designed mainly for older people or those with reduced mobility, but open to all ages. Its main feature is that running is not allowed, making it a less intense but still engaging game, where strategy and precision become central. This sport was created to promote physical activity in a safe way, minimizing the risk of injury.

Here are the main characteristics of walking soccer:

• Field: walking soccer is played on a smaller field than traditional soccer, similar to a 5-a-side soccer field, with dimensions ranging from 20x40 meters to 25x50 meters. The field can be either outdoors or indoors.
• Teams: each team generally consists of 5 or 6 players, but there are variants with more players depending on the tournament or organization’s needs.
• Duration: matches usually last 2 halves of 10 or 15 minutes, with a short break between halves. The duration may vary depending on the competition.
• Ball: a standard size 5 soccer is used, but some variants may use softer balls to increase safety.
• Substitutions: substitutions are often unlimited, allowing players to rest and keep the game flowing.
• Goals: the goals are generally similar to those used in 5-a-side soccer, measuring about 3x2 meters.
• Physical contact: walking soccer is a low-contact sport. Tackles are limited, and any rough or aggressive play is strictly penalized. This is to prevent injuries and maintain a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Main rule: running is not allowed. A player is considered to be running if both feet leave the ground during movement. If a player is caught running, a foul is awarded to the opposing team.
• Rules: walking soccer has some different rules compared to traditional soccer:
  • Offside: usually, there is no offside rule, but this can vary depending on the tournament.
  • Ball height: it is often forbidden to lift the ball above waist height to reduce the risk of injury and keep the game at a safe level.
  • Throw-ins and free kicks: are taken with the feet, as in 5-a-side soccer.

Walking soccer focuses not only on competition but also on inclusivity and physical and social well-being. It is intended to keep people active who may no longer be able to play traditional soccer due to age or physical conditions, but who still want to stay fit and enjoy group activities.

Thanks to the slower pace and reduced physical contact, walking soccer allows everyone to enjoy the benefits of soccer, improving cardiovascular health, coordination, balance, and cognitive abilities without the risks associated with the intensity of traditional soccer.