A more relaxed approach to soccer. Football Queensland has officially launched their take on walking football.

Jacob Condon reports.

TRANSCRIPT

It’s the snail paced phenomenon that’s landed in Queensland.

Walking Football, aimed at the elderly, is a modified version of the game played on a smaller field where running and tackling is banned.

Andy Allan, Football Queensland Participation Manager: “It’s a slower paced game that’s taken back to try and introduce more people to play the game. Either give it a go or maybe it’s people that can no longer run.”

Football Queensland’s goal is to have 1,100 participants playing the game by the end of 2020.

Vox 1: “The idea of reliving what it was like 20, 30 years ago. Being out there, having a game, kicking around with a bunch of mates. Drink afterwards, very good fun. Good for your mental health as well as your physical health.”

More than just exercise, organisers are trying to foster an active and social community.

Vox 2: “I stopped playing proper football about 20 years ago. It’s very very frustrating. I was just watching tv one day and I saw this walking football and I thought that’s it, it’s a new lease on life.”

The Heart Foundation are also encouraging more people to get involved in programs like these.

Kate Hordern, Heart Foundation: “It’s so important for people to get active. We do know that physical inactivity as well as obesity are the major risk factors of heart disease.”

Organisers say it’s all about having fun and making friends regardless of your age or ability.

Jacob Condon, QUT News.