50 or over – Have you thought about playing walking football with the Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation?
 
WHAT IS IT? – Walking football is much like regular football that we used to play and thought we had lost forever when we became older. The key difference is that there is no running and no contact. The rules – which are very simple – are designed to ensure players remain healthy and safe at all times. Games are played on small pitches with small goals and typically six-a-side teams. Walking football can be played indoors or outdoors, on 3G/4G artificial grass pitches or natural grass.
 
WHO PLAYS IT? – Walking football is generally played by the over 50’s. Although the majority of players with Harrogate Town are in their 60’s, with some even in their 70’s. The club has a 50’s team and a 60’s team who both play competitively in the Northern Premier League. They also play a number of friendlies with clubs throughout Yorkshire and the North East, both home and away.
 
WHY SHOULD YOU PLAY IT? – As well as helping to promote a sense of well-being and developing new friendships amongst players, there are also a number of health benefits to playing walking football such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and strokes; and not forgetting the mental health benefits.
 
WHEN CAN YOU PLAY – Harrogate Town hold sessions on a Tuesday and Thursday evening at Rossett Sports Centre. There are different sessions to accommodate players of all ages and abilities, including those who are new to the game.