Walking Rugby Rules Explained

Walking Rugby doesn’t have a single official rulebook the way full-contact rugby does. Instead, clubs across the UK have independently developed a broadly consistent set of guidelines — enough alike that players can move between clubs easily, but with enough local variation that it’s always worth checking with your specific session before your first game. This guide covers the core principles shared by most Walking Rugby sessions in the UK.

The core principle: no running

The single rule every Walking Rugby session shares is right there in the name — players must walk, not run, at all times. Most clubs enforce this with a graduated system: a verbal warning for a first infringement, followed by a penalty (commonly an indirect free pass to the opposing team) for repeated running. Referees and coaches use discretion — a slightly brisk walk in the heat of the moment is usually treated differently to a deliberate sprint.

No contact, two-handed touch

Tackling is removed entirely and replaced with a two-handed touch — both hands must make contact with the ball-carrier to stop play, the same way a tackle would in full-contact rugby. Once touched, the ball-carrier passes the ball back and play restarts, similar in principle to touch rugby.

What happens if a player runs or makes contact?

Most clubs handle infringements with a graduated approach rather than stopping the game outright for minor incidents. A first offence typically draws a verbal warning from the referee or session organiser. Repeated running or accidental contact usually results in an indirect free pass to the opposing team, similar in principle to touch rugby. Because most sessions are recreational rather than competitive, the emphasis tends to be on keeping the game flowing and enjoyable rather than strict enforcement — though tournament or festival settings may apply the rules more formally.

Scoring and general play

Beyond the walking and non-contact rules, gameplay follows familiar rugby structure:

Tries are scored by grounding the ball over the try line, exactly as in full-contact rugby
Passing must go backward or level, never forward, matching standard rugby law
Games are typically played in two halves, though exact timing varies by club and by whether it’s a regular session or a tournament/festival format

Team sizes and pitch

Most Walking Rugby is played 6-a-side or 8-a-side, on a pitch smaller than a full-size rugby pitch — often a half-pitch or a marked-out area roughly the size used for touch rugby. Smaller teams and a smaller pitch keep every player closely involved in play, which is part of what makes the format so accessible for beginners.

Equipment and safety

Most sessions ask for comfortable sports clothing and suitable footwear for the playing surface — trainers are usually fine for indoor or 3G surfaces, while astro boots may be recommended outdoors. Full rugby kit and boots generally aren’t required, especially for beginners trying a session for the first time.

Rules can vary by club

Because Walking Rugby grew organically from grassroots clubs rather than a single governing body, small differences are common — the exact touch height, whether penalties are indirect or direct, half-length, and pitch size can all vary from one club to the next. Always check with your specific session before your first game.

Find a session

Ready to try it for yourself? Find a Walking Rugby session near you and check their specific rules when you arrive. Find Walking Rugby Near You

FAQ

Is there an official Walking Rugby rulebook?

Not a single official one — rules have developed independently across many clubs, though the core principles (no running, no contact, standard scoring) are consistent nationwide.

What counts as a “touch”?

Both hands must make contact with the ball-carrier to stop play. Exact height and enforcement can vary slightly by club.

Can you tackle at all in Walking Rugby?

No — tackling is removed entirely and replaced with the two-handed touch.

Is there an offside rule?

Most sessions follow standard rugby’s offside principles, adapted to the smaller pitch and team sizes — check with your specific club for exact enforcement.

Do all clubs play 6-a-side?

No — team sizes commonly range from 6-a-side to 8-a-side depending on the club and the number of players available on the day.

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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 Rugby – Rules

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