Walking Hockey – Benefits

The Benefits of Walking Hockey

Walking Hockey offers former players a genuine way back onto the pitch, and gives newcomers an approachable route into a sport known for its friendly, sociable atmosphere. Here’s what regular players get out of it.

Fitness without the sprint

Sustained movement across a full session — moving with the ball, passing, defending — builds real cardiovascular fitness and coordination, without the running and physical intensity that put full-paced hockey out of reach for many players.

A genuine route back onto the pitch

For former players, Walking Hockey offers a real way back into the sport itself — not a generic replacement, but recognisably hockey: the stick skills, the teamwork, the tactics. That matters enormously for players who assumed their playing days were behind them.

Stick skills and coordination

Hockey has always demanded sharp hand-eye coordination and stick control, and Walking Hockey keeps both fully engaged — controlling the ball, finding a pass, timing a shot — all without the physical intensity of the full-paced game.

Social connection

Walking Hockey has built a strong reputation for its social atmosphere — players regularly describe it as one of the friendliest walking sports to join. A regular session means a consistent group of people, a shared purpose, and a genuine sense of community.

Lower injury risk

Removing running and physical contact, along with keeping the ball and stick low, significantly reduces the injury risk associated with full-paced hockey, making Walking Hockey a realistic, sustainable option for players managing long-term health conditions or returning to sport after injury — with a doctor’s guidance where relevant.

Next steps

Curious what a session actually involves? Read our getting started guide, or find a club near you. Find Walking Hockey Near You

More Walking Hockey Guides

• Benefits of Walking Hockey
• Getting Started With Walking Hockey
• Walking Hockey Overview
• Walking Hockey Rules Explained

Explore other walking sports

• Walking Basketball
• Walking Cricket
• Walking Football
• Walking Hockey
• Walking Netball
• Walking Rounders
• Walking Rugby
• Walking Tennis

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