Getting Started With Walking Basketball

Never played basketball before, or it’s been years since you last stepped on a court? Walking Basketball is built to welcome both — here’s exactly what to expect before your first session.

What to wear

Comfortable sports clothing and trainers suitable for the court surface — no specialist kit required. Most sessions provide balls, so there’s usually nothing to buy before trying it out.

What actually happens in a first session

Most Walking Basketball sessions follow a similar shape:

A gentle warm-up
A walkthrough of the walking rule and basic positioning, especially for newcomers
Simple drills practising passing, dribbling, and shooting
Small-sided games putting it all together

Sessions are typically an hour, and most clubs are happy for newcomers to simply watch first if that feels more comfortable.

What happens after your first session?

If you enjoy your first taster session, most clubs make it very easy to keep coming back — typically just a simple pay-as-you-go drop-in fee with no long-term commitment or membership required. Many new players are surprised at how quickly their confidence builds: the walking pace gives you more time to think about positioning and passing than the full-speed game ever would, so skills tend to click faster than people expect. It’s also worth asking your session organiser whether the club takes part in any local festivals or friendly matches against other Walking Basketball clubs — many groups do, and they’re a fun, low-pressure way to play against new opposition once you’re settled in.

Do I need any basketball experience?

No. Walking Basketball sessions welcome complete beginners alongside former players, and coaches typically talk newcomers through the basics before play starts.

Cost

Most sessions charge a small drop-in fee, commonly in the £3–£8 range, with no membership required to try it out. Check with your local session for their specific arrangement.

Is it safe if I have a health condition or injury history?

Walking Basketball’s no-running format significantly reduces injury risk compared to full-paced basketball, and many players use it specifically as a way to stay active despite an injury or long-term condition. As with any new physical activity, it’s worth checking with a doctor first if you have specific health concerns.

Ready to try it?

The best way to know if Walking Basketball is for you is simply to turn up to a session — most clubs welcome first-timers to watch or join in without any commitment. Find Walking Basketball Near You · Learn the full rules · Read about the benefits

FAQ

Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?

This depends on the individual club — some sessions are genuinely drop-in with no need to contact anyone in advance, while others prefer new players to message ahead so the organiser knows to expect you and can introduce you to the group. Check your chosen club’s listing on our directory for their specific arrangement before heading down.

What if I don’t know anyone at the session?

Walking Basketball clubs are generally very welcoming to newcomers, and most organisers make a point of introducing new players to the group as soon as they arrive. Many players specifically mention how friendly and low-pressure their first session felt, which is a big part of why the sport has built such a strong community reputation.

Is there a minimum fitness level required?

No — sessions are deliberately designed to be accessible at whatever pace and fitness level you’re starting from, and coaches are used to working with a wide range of abilities within the same session. You can go at your own pace and build up gradually as you get more comfortable.

How long before I feel confident playing?

Most newcomers report feeling genuinely comfortable with the basics — positioning, passing, and the walking rule — within their first two or three sessions. Because the pace is slower than full-speed basketball, there’s naturally more time to think and react, which tends to accelerate how quickly new players settle in compared to jumping straight into the full-paced game.

More Walking Basketball Guides

Explore other walking sports

Last updated: August 2026 — This guide draws on guidance from national governing bodies where available, established club practices from across our directory, and real feedback from the walking sports community. Walking Sports Hub has been connecting players for over 5 years, with 3,500+ sessions and clubs listed across 8 walking sports. Clubs and players are welcome to submit updates or corrections. Learn more about Walking Sports Hub

Walking Basketball – Getting Started

Table of Contents