Walking Netball Rules Explained

Walking Netball follows the same core structure as standard netball — same court, same seven positions, same basic skills — with a small set of adaptations that bring the pace down to walking speed. This guide covers the core principles shared by Walking Netball sessions.

The core principle: no running or jumping

Players must keep at least part of one foot in contact with the court at all times — no running, and no jumping to intercept or catch the ball. This is the defining adaptation that makes the game accessible to players managing reduced mobility, balance concerns, or recovery from injury.

Extra time and movement on the ball

Standard netball gives players three seconds to pass and strict footwork rules once the ball is caught. Walking Netball relaxes both slightly — commonly allowing four seconds to release the ball, and an additional step once a player has received it, helping with balance and reducing the impact of landing.

What happens if a player runs or oversteps?

Walking Netball is generally officiated in a relaxed, coaching-led way rather than with strict, formal enforcement, particularly in social sessions. A first instance of running, jumping, or taking too many steps once in possession is typically met with a quick verbal reminder from the host running the session, since these things happen naturally as new players adjust to the format. More persistent infringements are usually handled the same way standard netball handles footwork violations — with the ball simply being turned over to the other team — rather than any harsher penalty. The overall emphasis in most sessions is on keeping the game inclusive and enjoyable rather than strict officiating.

Positions and court

Walking Netball uses the same court layout and the same seven playing positions as standard netball (Goal Shooter, Goal Attack, Wing Attack, Centre, Wing Defence, Goal Defence, Goal Keeper), with each position restricted to its usual areas of the court, just as in the full-paced game.

Game format

Games are typically shorter than standard netball, often split into quarters of around six to eight minutes, with substitutions allowed at any time. This keeps sessions manageable and ensures everyone gets good playing time.

Contact and general play

As with standard netball, deliberate contact that interferes with an opponent’s play is penalised. Beyond the walking, footwork, and timing adjustments, general play follows familiar netball structure.

Rules can vary slightly by club

While Walking Netball rules are more standardised nationally than some other walking sports (having been developed centrally by England Netball), small local variations in timing and enforcement can still exist between individual clubs. Always check with your specific session before your first game.

Find a session

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

FAQ

Is there an official Walking Netball rulebook?

Yes, more so than most walking sports — Walking Netball was developed centrally by England Netball in partnership with Age UK, giving it a more standardised set of rules nationally than sports that grew organically from many separate clubs. That said, small local variations in timing and enforcement can still exist between individual sessions, so it’s worth checking with your specific club before your first game.

Do all seven netball positions still exist in Walking Netball?

Yes — Walking Netball uses the same court layout and the same seven playing positions as standard netball (Goal Shooter, Goal Attack, Wing Attack, Centre, Wing Defence, Goal Defence, Goal Keeper), with each position restricted to its usual areas of the court, just as in the full-paced game.

How much extra time do you get to pass the ball?

Standard netball gives players three seconds to release the ball once caught. Walking Netball commonly extends this to around four seconds, along with allowing an extra step once the ball is received, which helps with balance and reduces the pressure of quick decision-making.

Is contact allowed in Walking Netball?

No — as with standard netball, deliberate contact that interferes with an opponent’s play is penalised. The walking and footwork adaptations reduce the physical intensity of the game, but the non-contact principle of netball remains fully in place.

More Walking Netball Guides

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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 – Rules

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