Walking football club’s goal for men's mental health
Regular kickabouts at a walking football group in Fort William are having a notable impact on the mental health of players who are rediscovering the thrill of the game.
Walking football is for people aged 50 and over and is a more leisurely version of a normal football game with players walking instead of running. It was designed to help people maintain an active lifestyle, regardless of their age or ability level, and to reduce social isolation.
In Lochaber, High Life Highland runs a men’s walking football group in Fort William on Monday nights, led by leisure manager Gary Davidson.
Gary said: “I started the walking football sessions about eight years ago and they’ve proved really popular. We would love to welcome new players. We have travelled to take part in tournaments and have welcomed visiting teams to Lochaber for games.
“It’s an incredibly fun and sociable way to keep active, with a great sense of camaraderie among the players. It is so important to keep active, not just for our physical health but also for our mental health.”
November marked Men’s Health Awareness Month - a global campaign encouraging men to start conversations about their mental or physical health - and members of Fort William’s walking football club have shared how the sport is benefitting their wellbeing.
Regular Fort William attendee Andy Smith said: “I don’t feel 60 when I’m playing.” And Thomas Larasser added: “It makes me feel like I’m 21 again!”
"It’s great exercise and a good laugh," said Scott Dingwall, with fellow team mate Brian Campbell agreeing the sport is "fun and competitive at the same time". Another player, William Sheach, said: “It’s a great reason to get out and valuable exercise for me.”
According to Walking Football Scotland, participants have reported many benefits such as being able to lower their heart rate and blood pressure, weight loss and improved mobility. The sessions can also support those who gave up football due to age or injury to get back into the game.
Walking football in Fort William takes place on Monday evenings from 7pm to 8.30pm at Lochaber Leisure Centre. For more information call 01397 704359.
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