Getting Started With Walking Netball

Never played netball before, or it’s been years since you last stepped on a court? Walking Netball 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. Sessions typically provide balls and bibs, so there’s usually nothing to buy before trying it out.

What actually happens in a first session

Most Walking Netball sessions follow a similar shape:

A gentle warm-up
Drills practising a specific skill, such as passing or shooting
A game, played at walking pace across shortened quarters
A cool-down and stretches, often followed by a hot drink and a chat

Sessions are usually led by a trained “host,” 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 easy to keep coming back — typically just a small pay-as-you-go drop-in fee with no long-term commitment required. Many new players find their confidence builds quickly over the first few weeks, since the walking pace gives far more time to think through positioning and passing than the full-speed game ever would. It’s also worth asking your session host whether the club takes part in any local festivals or friendly matches against other Walking Netball clubs — many groups do, particularly given the sport’s well-established, centrally supported structure, and they’re a fun, low-pressure way to play against new opposition once you’re settled in.

Do I need any netball experience?

No. Walking Netball sessions welcome complete beginners alongside lifelong netball players, and hosts typically talk newcomers through positions and rules 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 Netball’s no-running, no-jumping format significantly reduces injury risk compared to standard netball, and it’s often specifically recommended as a route back into activity after injury or surgery. 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 Netball 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 Netball 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 beforehand, while others prefer new players to message ahead so the host knows to expect you and can introduce you to the group on arrival. Check your chosen club’s listing on our directory for their specific arrangement.

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

Walking Netball clubs are generally very welcoming to newcomers, and most hosts 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 hosts are trained to work with a wide range of abilities within the same session. You can build up gradually and take breaks whenever you need to.

How long before I feel confident playing?

Most newcomers report feeling genuinely comfortable with the basics — positioning, footwork, and passing — within their first two or three sessions. Because the pace is slower than full-paced netball, there’s naturally more time to think through each play, which tends to help new players settle in faster than jumping straight into the full-speed game.

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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 Netball – Getting Started

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