By: Claire Zhou

Former soccer players and newcomers are discovering the benefits of walking soccer, a safe sport that promotes both physical and mental well-being.

Gary Clark began playing soccer at the age of 7, and he continued to play for many years, even representing his home country, Canada, at the international level. However, at 48 years old, he underwent knee replacement surgery and later tore the cartilage in his other knee.

“There was a sense of loss at not being able to go out and partake in my passion,” Clark, now 68 years old, said. “And I knew that if I tried, I would injure myself again.”

Soccer’s fast-paced and high-intensity nature can be physically demanding, leading people like Clark to face challenges in participating after a certain age or injury. Nevertheless, things changed when walking soccer was introduced and exploded in popularity.

Walking soccer is played on a smaller field with fewer players on each team than normal soccer. Running or jogging is absolutely not allowed, and at least one foot must always be touching the ground.

“I have lost weight playing, so I think that’s a good sign,” Clark, who has been playing for about a year, said. “After we finish playing, we go to the pub, have lunch and a couple of beers, and razz each other about the game. So socially, it’s been great.”