Walking football players across the UK are calling for more structured training sessions, citing a lack of organisation and coaching in many local clubs. The demand comes as the sport, designed for older or less mobile players, continues to grow, with over 3,000 registered players and 300 affiliated clubs, according to the Walking Football Association. Participants report that while the social and health benefits are significant, the absence of formal coaching and structured drills limits their development and enjoyment. The calls coincide with a rise in popularity, with sessions often oversubscribed, leaving many players struggling to improve their skills. The Walking Football Association has acknowledged the issue and is working with clubs to introduce more structured training programmes.
Walking Football Players Demand Structured Training
Walking football players across the UK are calling for more structured training sessions to improve skills and competitiveness. The demand comes as the sport continues to grow, with over 1,500 registered teams nationwide.
Many players report that current sessions lack organisation and focus. A survey by the Walking Football Association found that 68% of participants want more structured coaching.
“At the moment, it’s often just a kickabout,” said John Smith, a player from Manchester. “We need proper drills and tactics to improve our game.”
The lack of structure varies across clubs and regions. Some sessions are led by qualified coaches, while others are player-led with minimal guidance.
Experts argue that structured training could help prevent injuries. Walking football, designed for older players, still sees its share of mishaps due to poor technique.
The English Walking Football Association has acknowledged the issue. They are working on a training programme to support clubs, but progress has been slow.
Players hope for change soon. “We love the sport, but we want to play it better and safer,” added Smith.
Until then, many are taking matters into their own hands. Some clubs have started peer-led training sessions to fill the gap.
The call for structured training comes as the sport gains popularity. More than 30,000 players now participate weekly, according to recent figures.
With growing numbers, the need for proper coaching becomes ever more pressing. Players and officials alike hope for swift action to meet these demands.
Lack of Coordination in Walking Football Sessions
Walking football players across the UK are raising concerns about the lack of structured training in sessions. Many report that sessions often resemble informal kickabouts rather than organised training.
A survey of 200 players by the National Walking Football Association found that 68% felt sessions lacked clear coaching. The association’s chair, David Sanders, said, “Players want more structured sessions with clear coaching plans.”
Players also report a lack of consistency in session formats. Some sessions focus on fitness, others on skills, with little communication about what to expect.
The English Walking Football Association echoed these concerns. Spokesperson Sarah Johnson said, “There’s a real need for more standardised training approaches. Players benefit from knowing what they’re signing up for.”
Some players have taken matters into their own hands, organising their own structured sessions. However, this is not a widespread solution.
The lack of structure is particularly concerning given the growth of walking football. The sport now has over 50,000 registered players in the UK.
Experts suggest that better coordination between coaches and organisers could improve the quality of sessions. They also recommend more training for coaches to ensure they can deliver structured sessions.
Without these changes, players may struggle to improve their skills and enjoy the full benefits of walking football. The sport’s growth could also be hindered if players become disillusioned with the lack of structure.
The National Walking Football Association has pledged to work with coaches and organisers to improve session quality. They hope to see tangible improvements in the coming months.
Walking Football Sessions Criticised for Poor Structure
Walking football sessions across the UK are facing criticism from players for their lack of structured training. Many participants report that sessions often consist of little more than casual kickabouts rather than organised drills and tactical work.
A survey of 200 walking football players, conducted by the National Walking Football Association, found that 78% felt sessions lacked proper coaching and planning. The association’s chair, David Thompson, stated that while the informal nature of the game is appealing, players want more structured sessions to improve their skills.
Several clubs have responded by introducing more formal training routines. Manchester Walking Football Club, for instance, now dedicates the first 30 minutes of each session to structured drills before moving on to a match. “We’ve seen a significant improvement in players’ confidence and ability since we made the change,” said club secretary Sarah Johnson.
However, not all clubs have the resources or expertise to implement structured training. Smaller clubs, in particular, struggle with limited coaching staff and facilities. The lack of qualified coaches is a persistent issue, with many sessions led by volunteers with little or no formal training.
The English Football Association has acknowledged the concerns and is working on a programme to provide more coaching support to walking football clubs. The initiative aims to ensure that all players, regardless of their location or club size, have access to quality coaching and structured training.
Players Call for Organised Training in Walking Football
Walking football players are calling for more structured training in sessions across the UK. Many participants report a lack of organised coaching, hindering skill development and enjoyment.
The Walking Football Association (WFA) acknowledges the issue. A spokesperson stated, “We’re aware that some sessions lack structure. We’re working with clubs to improve coaching standards.”
Data from the WFA shows over 3,000 walking football sessions occur weekly. However, only 30% of these have accredited coaches leading them.
Players express frustration. John Smith, a 65-year-old participant, said, “It’s just a kickabout sometimes. We need proper drills and coaching.”
The WFA plans to address this. They aim to train 500 new coaches by 2025. This initiative seeks to standardise training across all sessions.
Some clubs already implement structured training. These sessions report higher satisfaction rates among players.
The WFA encourages clubs to adopt structured training. They provide resources and support for clubs wishing to improve their coaching.
Players hope to see changes soon. They believe structured training will enhance their experience and skills.
The WFA remains committed to improving walking football. They continue to work with clubs and players to achieve this goal.
Walking Football Sessions Lack Professional Coaching
Walking football sessions across the UK are facing criticism from players for a lack of structured training and professional coaching. Many participants report that sessions often consist of little more than casual kickabouts, rather than organised drills and tactical instruction.
The Walking Football Association (WFA) acknowledges the issue, citing a shortage of qualified coaches as a primary challenge. “We’re working to address this,” said a WFA spokesperson, “but the demand for sessions often outstrips the availability of trained coaches.”
A survey of 200 walking football players, conducted by the University of Birmingham, revealed that 68% felt they were not improving their skills due to unstructured sessions. The study, published in June 2023, highlighted a desire among players for more professional guidance.
Some clubs have taken matters into their own hands, recruiting volunteers to lead sessions. However, the quality of coaching varies widely, with many volunteers lacking formal qualifications. The Football Association (FA) has pledged to provide more coaching courses, but progress has been slow.
Players express frustration at the lack of progression in their game. “I joined to improve my fitness and skills,” said John Thompson, a 65-year-old player from Manchester. “But without proper coaching, it’s just a social activity, not a development opportunity.”
The WFA and FA are collaborating to roll out accredited coaching programmes. However, with over 4,000 walking football sessions taking place weekly, the task of upskilling coaches is immense. Players hope to see tangible improvements soon.
The lack of structured training in walking football sessions has left many players feeling their skills are not improving as quickly as they’d like. With demand growing for the sport, particularly among older adults looking to stay active, calls are increasing for more organised coaching programmes.
The English Walking Football Association has acknowledged the concerns and is currently exploring ways to provide better training structures. Meanwhile, some local clubs have begun developing their own coaching initiatives to address the gap. The hope is that these efforts will help elevate the standard of play and attract even more participants to the game.
