Understanding the Rules of Walking Football (Beginner Coach Guide)
Description
This episode is based on the book Coaching Walking Football by Chris King β available now on Amazon in paperback or ebook:
π https://mybook.to/walkingfootballbook
In todayβs episode, we break down one of the most important areas for any new Walking Football coach: understanding the rules. Whether youβre coaching complete beginners or a mixed group of older adults, knowing the core regulations will help you run safer, smoother, more enjoyable sessions.
We cover the essential rules with real coaching examples you can apply straight away:
Why keeping one foot on the ground matters, how to spot running, and simple ways to correct it (including fun reminders like βwalk like a penguin!β).
How to enforce a safe, friendly environment with no bumping, barging, or blocking using the body.
How to teach safer ways to win the ball and what to say when someone slides in.
Typical match lengths, how to manage fatigue, and when to take breaks.
Why 5v5 and 6v6 formats work best β and how to run multiple small-sided games when you have big numbers at training.
How removing the offside rule simplifies the game and keeps older players more involved.
Why this rule exists, how to enforce it, and what to do when someone lifts the ball too high.
By the end of this episode, youβll have a clear, practical understanding of the official Walking Football rules β plus examples you can use at your next session to make coaching easier, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone.
π Get the full book, Coaching Walking Football, on Amazon:
https://mybook.to/walkingfootballbook
πΆββοΈ 1. Walking Only β No Running
π€ 2. No Physical Contact
π 3. No Slide Tackles
β±οΈ 4. Shorter Game Durations
β½ 5. Smaller Team Sizes
β 6. No Offside
β¬οΈ 7. Keep the Ball Below Head Height





