Frequently Asked Questions
What is walking football?
Walking football is a small-sided version of the game created by John Croot in 2011. It keeps the feel of traditional football but removes running so the pace is slower and safer. The skills and patterns of play are familiar, which makes it easy to pick up and great for all abilities.
What ages can play?
Most sessions are for people in their 40s and above, and both men and women are welcome. Clubs set their own age guidance, but anyone is welcome to get involved.
Who governs walking football?
In England, The FA is the governing body for walking football.
Different leagues and tournaments may apply their own competition rules, but many sessions in England follow FA guidance.
Many clubs and matches are not affiliated to any governing body, and they still play in the spirit of the game.
What are the basic rules?
The FA Laws of the Game focus on safety, respect, and fair play. Key rules include:
- No running or jogging (usually an indirect free kick).
- Non-contact at all times.
- Ball must not go above head height.
- Deflection above head height by the goalkeeper is kept by the keeper.
- No heading the ball.
- All free kicks are indirect.
- No offside.
- No tackling from behind.
- No direct goal from kick-off or any dead-ball situation.
- Defenders must be 3 metres away at free kicks.
- No playing the ball while grounded (no slide tackles or slide blocks).
- No cornering a player; allow opponents to turn.
- No 2 v 1 tackling at barriers or walls.
- No tackling across an opponent at a wall or barrier.
- Reckless or dangerous play is an infringement.
- One-step penalty kicks.
- No restriction on passing back or out from the goalkeeper.
- Sin bin for three infringements (same or different).
- Zero tolerance on abusive conduct.
The Laws of the Game are reviewed regularly to keep the sport safe and enjoyable. Read the FA Laws of the Game here: FA Laws of the Game (PDF).
What kit do I need?
Wear whatever feels comfortable. Breathable sports clothing helps you stay cool, but it does not have to be expensive. The main items to consider are shin pads and suitable footwear. A football-specific trainer can improve grip and control, but many clubs allow standard training shoes. Some venues have footwear rules, so check with the club before attending.
Do I need an account to use the site?
You can browse public pages without an account, but you will need to register to create posts, claim a club, join a club, or manage a profile.
How do I become club manager?
Open a club page and click "club manager." Fill in the form and provide any helpful credentials. We review all requests and will notify you by email once a decision is made.
Example: View a club
How do I join (link) a club?
Joining a club links your profile to that club so you can see other members, view mutual club members, and interact with them, and socialise within the club community.
Use the navigation bar: go to Profiles → Club Profiles. Find a club using the name search, use the postcode search to see clubs near you, or browse the list.
Open the club page and click Join this club. The club owner will review your request.
Start here: Club Profiles
Why do I need to complete my profile?
To be listed on the website, you need to complete both your Personal Profile and your Player Profile. This helps other members find you and makes club interactions smoother.
What is a FAN ID and what is it used for?
A FAN ID (or FA Number - FAN) is a unique digital identifier used in football to track individuals involved in the sport, from players and referees to coaches and fans, holding their personal information and activity.
You need a FAN (Football Association Number) ID primarily for English football administration, to log in, book courses, register players on systems like Whole Game, and manage your identity across FA services.
It may also be required for some other sports or events for ticketing and safety checks.
Need to create one? Use the FA guide here: Create a FAN ID
Can I create a club?
Yes. If you cannot find your club, you can create one and manage it from your account. Use the club creation page here: Create a club
Who can see my contact details?
Contact details are private by default. You can choose to show them to friends or mutual followers from your profile settings. Club contact details are shown only if the club owner enables them.
How do I edit my profile?
Use the “Edit Profile” button on your feed or profile page. You can update your account details, player profile, and referee profile from there.
I can’t sign in. What should I do?
Use the “Forgot password” link on the sign‑in page to reset your password. If you have not verified your email, follow the verification link in your inbox.