Walking Football for Men and Women 60+: A 12-Week Non-Controlled Intervention Affects Health Parameters

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Sports Science
• Cardiology

Background:

• Physically inactive older adults are at increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases and functional decline.
• Low-to-moderate intensity exercise interventions are crucial for maintaining health and independence in this population.
• Walking football offers a novel, accessible, and engaging physical activity for older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physiological and cardiometabolic effects of a 12-week walking football program.
• To assess changes in body composition, cardiovascular risk factors, and physical performance in sedentary older adults.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week walking football intervention (2x20 min sessions/week) was implemented.
• Thirty-three physically inactive older adults (mean age 74.0 ± 5.7 years) participated.
• Baseline and post-intervention assessments included blood pressure, waist circumference, body composition, blood markers (HDL-cholesterol, HbA1c), balance, estimated VO2max, mobility, grip strength, and vertical jump height.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in grip strength (p < .005) and Timed Up and Go test performance (p < .001).
• Waist circumference decreased significantly (p < .001).
• Positive changes in cardiometabolic markers included increased HDL-cholesterol (p < .005) and decreased HbA1c (p < .028).

Conclusions:

• Walking football is an effective intervention for improving physiological and cardiometabolic health in older adults.
• The program enhances physical function, reduces abdominal adiposity, and positively impacts key cardiovascular risk factors.
• This activity provides a viable and beneficial exercise option for promoting healthy aging.