Walking Soccer: No Running, No Contact, Ball Below the Waist

A school version of walking soccer, a real format created for older adults where running is banned. You play by thinking, passing and finding space, and it's ideal for anyone who doesn't want to or can't run.

How to play

1. Explain the origin and rules: always one foot on the ground, no contact, ball below the waist (3 min).
2. Walking 5v2 keep-away to get used to passing without running (4 min).
3. 6v6 or 7v7 game on a 30 x 20 m field with small goals (8 min).
4. Pause: what worked when nobody can run? (2 min).
5. Second game with new teams; every running foul gives the opponent an indirect free kick (8 min).

Rules

• No running: one foot always on the ground; if you run, indirect free kick to the other team.
• The ball may not go above waist height.
• No contact or tackles: win the ball by stepping in or intercepting.
• Each team names one player to watch its own team for running.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility or wheelchair users: play at their own pace with a slightly soft ball; this is the most accessible format of the unit.
• Visual impairment: bell ball, and the slow pace makes it easier to track; a teammate orients the student toward goal.
• Injury or returning from illness: can play the whole session since intensity is low.

Learning goals

• Make passing decisions without relying on speed.
• Occupy space instead of chasing the ball.
• Follow a demanding rule with self-control.

Equipment for a class of 25

• soccer balls: 2
• pinnies: 14
• cones: 16
• small goals: 4

Teacher tip

Works great with mixed-ability groups because speed stops deciding the game. The usual problem is sneaky jogging: having each team police itself builds self-regulation.

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