If you are interested in playing football but find the pace a little too much, then a walking football session that is running in Ashington could be for you. 
 

The classes are giving men an opportunity to play and enjoy this popular sport at a slower pace, helping them to keep an active lifestyle regardless of their age or fitness level. 

It runs every Monday evening and is open to anyone. It would particularly suit the elderly, those who have never played football and those who have an injury or a health condition. 

Jake Preece, Sports Development Officer at Northumberland County Council said: 

“No matter what your age, if you can walk and kick a football – there is room for everyone. 

“Walking Football is a fantastic team sport which helps counter social isolation but the mental and physical health benefits from regular gentle exercise are also enormous. 

“Walking Football is experiencing a massive surge in popularity and there have been some men’s groups running in the county for a couple of years. Some of those participants have told us they are getting better cholesterol readings, balance, mobility and quite a few are losing weight so there are some great health benefits involved too.” 
 

This is an Ashington Town Men's Walking Football Club project supported by the Northumberland County Council programme 'Get Onside', an exciting new activity programme from Sport England, funded by the National Lottery, and delivered by the Football Foundation, which is supporting residents of Ashington & Berwick to get more active.
 

The Ashington Town Mens’ Walking Football Group meet on Mondays between 6-7pm at Josephine Butler Campus, Ashington. 

Sessions involve gentle functional exercise to improve balance, coordination, flexibility and strength, warm-ups, coaching drills and games. Extra support is given for those with medical conditions. 
 

Wear loose comfortable clothing, soft soled shoes and bring a bottle of water. 

It is £3 per session but the first session is free. There is no need to book in advance. 

If you want to get involved or find out more contact Jake Preece on email: jake.preece@northumberland.gov.uk