Women’s Walking Football programme, in association with Age UK

By Bolton Arena | 16 February 2022 | TAGS: Bolton, Women and girls, Football, "Walking Football"]

The women's football programme has been created with the goal of opening doors for females all across the region to get back in to playing the game they love, when they may have thought their playing days were behind them.

Whether you are new to the game or a past experienced player, the sport of Walking Football, along with its unique rules, is a great leveller of ability. The new women only session takes place every Tuesday at Bolton Arena, outdoors, 19:00 - 20:00 and at a cost of just £2.00 per session.

These sessions will build towards a Women's Walking Football League, hosted at Bolton Arena. This League will be the first of its kind in the whole of the north of England, and just the 2nd in the country, as we aim to build not only the sport, but also the physical and mental health of women across the region. More details of this upcoming League will be announced in the near future.

The game is played at walking pace, is non-contact and the ball must remain below head height. Our Football Manager, Marcus Brown has said "Each session starts with a warm-up then into a 50 minute match. Each session will have a match referee who would lead the warm-up and officiate the match. Walking football offers a multitude of health benefits to older people such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke while improving blood pressure. Additional benefits also include better postural balance, blood pressure and resting heart rate, lowered cholesterol, improved blood sugar levels, bone density, and improving reactions – all indicators of general good health".

It’s not just health benefits – Walking Football also offers social benefits. Participants can meet new people, avoid becoming isolated, and interact with individuals and small groups. This is one sporting activity that may be just suitable for all. Living the same routine year after year can sometimes make people feel like they’re going through the motions. However, joining in a physical activity with a group of people your age can be a breath of fresh air, improve purpose and well-being. It’s a great way to get out more, meet new people and has the potential to be the occasion you look forward to the most within your week. Doing a bit of regular activity will keep you feeling healthy and happier in later life.

For further information please contact Reception on 01204 488100 or email: [email protected]