Over six weeks, 13 participants from regional Victoria, aged from 50 and up to 77-years, took part in weekly one-hour walking football sessions.
The study, conducted through the Holsworth Biomedical Research Centre at the La Trobe Rural Health School, found that participants experienced improvements in walking ability, agility, and strength, along with enhanced social connection and cognitive engagement.
“This was more than just a kick of the ball - participants told us they felt part of something bigger,” said Dr Stephen Cousins, lead researcher and lecturer in Exercise Science. “They were moving their bodies, connecting with others, and re-engaging with physical activity in a way that felt safe, fun, and achievable.”
Many participants reported a noticeable boost in confidence and capability in their day-to-day lives.
“It’s amazing how much I’ve noticed my physical fitness has improved. Also, a sense of confidence, of just moving around in a sports situation, that normally I would be terrified,” said Kathleen, a participant.
This research is particularly relevant given that older adults in rural areas face higher rates of chronic illness, social isolation, and limited access to physical activity programs. Walking football offers a safe, cost-effective, and socially engaging way to support healthy ageing in these communities.
“There’s a misconception that sport stops as we age,” said Stephen Cousins. “But walking football shows that inclusive, modified sports can improve lives and reconnect people — especially in rural settings where opportunities can be limited.”
The program was a turning point for participant David: “It’s been a real wake-up call for me... the flexibility and balance aspects that I had lost but were still able to be recovered. I wouldn’t have realised that.”
These gains enabled several participants to engage more in everyday activities like shopping, social events and travel.
The program also created strong social bonds among participants, many of whom had never played team sports before. They reported feeling part of a supportive community, with new friendships extending beyond the football field.
Participants also described the mental benefits of playing, with improved focus, memory, and tactical thinking.
“Trying to be tactical about where you’re going to go, where the ball’s going to go — that mental stimulation is a big part of it,” explained William.
With the success of this pilot, the research team hopes to conduct larger studies and expand the walking football program across regional Australia.
This work supports La Trobe Rural Health School’s mission to improve health outcomes in rural communities, with a strong focus on healthy ageing, preventative care, and inclusive program design.
