USA
As we age, there are some activities that were once easy that become more difficult. For many athletes, the competitive spirit in their hearts and minds never dwindles, even if their bodies don’t operate the same way anymore.
In an effort to quench that thirst for competition, many areas are adopting a new craze known as “Walking Soccer”. Walking Soccer is a leisurely paced game designed to get elderly people active and away from their homes. Running is against the rules to lessen the risk of injury. Each player must have one foot touching the ground at all times to prove that he or she is walking and not running. It’s harder than you think!
Participants have noticed weight loss, lowered blood pressure, improved mobility and many other undeniable health benefits from this increased activity. Sports therapists have even turned to Walking Soccer as a way to rehabilitate their patients. But, let’s not forget, Walking Soccer is also a whole lot of fun!
The sport has spread rapidly across Europe, and leagues have recently begun springing up in the US as well. Don’t let the speed of the game fool you either, it is highly competitive.
In early April, Stannah Stairlifts sponsored a tournament in Italy in an effort to expand the sport’s reach.
The mission of Stannah Stairlifts is to fulfill the needs of those, who despite their age, desire to live comfortably. With a Stannah Stairlift the elderly are able to easily navigate their homes safely and independently. At their core, both Walking Soccer and Stannah strive to provide increased mobility to the elderly, which is why Stannah was a perfect match to sponsor this tournament. Stannah Stairlifts and Walking Soccer are proof that age does not have to prevent you from continuing to pursue your passions.