Nearly 100 people attended this year’s Wiltshire Walking Sports Festival at Springfield Community Campus, enjoying the opportunity to try a range of activities designed to help people stay active, improve their wellbeing and connect with others in their local community.

The festival featured a series of taster sessions in walking football, walking hockey, walking rugby, walking netball and pickleball, giving residents the chance to experience different sports in a welcoming and supportive environment. Attendees were also able to find out more about local clubs and groups, helping them continue participating beyond the event.

Walking sports are a low-impact way for people to stay active and are particularly popular with older adults, those returning to exercise after a break and people recovering from injury. They offer physical and social benefits, helping to improve cardiovascular health, muscular strength, flexibility, confidence and wellbeing while reducing social isolation. Most sessions also provide opportunities for people to build friendships and become part of a supportive local community.

The event received excellent feedback from participants, many of whom praised the friendly atmosphere, inclusive activities and opportunities to connect with others.

One attendee said: “I enjoyed the football. I was pleased that there were both women and men there, and to meet the group that plays in Chippenham, which is my local team. I will join in next month.”

Another commented: “This was a well-attended event, very friendly and well organised by Active Wiltshire. Wiltshire seems to be at the forefront of creating opportunities for older people to enjoy and benefit from exercise, and long may it continue!”

Other participants shared their experiences, saying: “I played hockey until I was 40 and it was so good to find old skills coming back.”

And “This was a fun and thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours of play for everyone who took part!”

Alongside the sporting activities, attendees were also able to access free health checks provided by the Living Well Team. The service was well received, with one participant saying: “I thought the idea of having a quick health check was a great one. It was well organised and had a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Well done everyone.”

The afternoon concluded with friendly walking football and walking netball tournaments involving local teams, showcasing the welcoming nature of walking sports while highlighting the opportunities available through local clubs for those looking to play regularly.

Walking sports sessions take place across Wiltshire throughout the year and are delivered by trained volunteers. They provide opportunities for residents of all abilities and fitness levels to take part in sport at their own pace while enjoying the social and wellbeing benefits of staying active.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement and Corporate Services, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people come together to take part in this year’s Walking Sports Festival.

“Walking sports provide a fun, accessible and inclusive way for people to stay active, improve their physical and mental wellbeing, and make new social connections.

“For many people, they can also provide a route back into sport and physical activity, helping to build confidence and develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime.”

“Events like this help people discover activities they may not have considered before and show that there are plenty of opportunities across Wiltshire for residents to keep active, whatever their age or ability.

“I’d like to thank the Community Sport and Wellbeing Team for organising the event, Springfield Community Campus for hosting, and all the local clubs, community groups and volunteers who delivered the taster sessions and helped make the day such a success.”

For more information about local walking sports opportunities and other activities available, visit Activities for adults – Wiltshire Council or email communitysport@wiltshire.gov.uk.