Walking Rugby
A fun, inclusive and non-contact version of the game that keeps people active, connected and involved in their local rugby club. Whether you’re a former player, recovering from injury, new to rugby or simply looking for a social way to stay active, Walking Rugby offers fitness, friendship and a sense of belonging.
What is Walking Rugby?
Walking Rugby is a non-contact version of rugby designed to make the game accessible to everyone, regardless of age, experience, fitness level, or previous injury history.
Players walk rather than run, and tackles are replaced with a light two-handed touch. The game retains the core rugby values of teamwork, passing, support play and decision-making, while removing the physical impact of the traditional game.
Typically played in mixed groups of men and women on a smaller pitch, Walking Rugby is easy to learn, highly social, and suitable for complete beginners as well as former players.
Why Play Walking Rugby?
Walking Rugby offers:
- A fun and enjoyable way to stay active
- Low-impact exercise suitable for a wide range of abilities
- Opportunities to meet new people and make friends
- Improved physical and mental wellbeing
- A chance to stay involved in rugby without contact
- An inclusive environment where everyone can participate together
Many clubs highlight the combination of fitness, friendship and belonging as the biggest reasons people continue to attend.
Who Is It For?
Walking Rugby is ideal for:
- Former players who want to remain connected to rugby
- Players retiring from contact rugby
- People returning after injury or illness
- Parents and supporters who have never played before
- Older adults looking for a sociable activity
- Men and women of all abilities
No rugby experience is required.
Benefits for Rugby Clubs
Retaining Existing Members
Walking Rugby provides a pathway for players who may otherwise leave the club because of:
- Age
- Injury
- Reduced mobility
- Family commitments
- Concerns about contact rugby
Instead of losing long-serving members, clubs can keep them involved as players, volunteers, supporters and mentors. This helps maintain club culture and strengthens connections across generations.
Re-engaging Former Players
Many former players still love rugby but no longer wish to play contact rugby.
Walking Rugby creates a welcoming route back into the club environment, allowing former players to:
- Reconnect with teammates
- Enjoy regular activity
- Support club events
- Remain part of the rugby community
Community feedback frequently highlights that Walking Rugby helps people return after injury while maintaining their enjoyment of the game.
Attracting New Audiences
Walking Rugby can bring new people through the clubhouse doors, including:
- Non-rugby players
- Older adults
- Local community groups
- Family members of existing players
- People seeking social and wellbeing opportunities
This broadens the club’s reach and demonstrates that rugby clubs are community hubs, not just match-day venues.
Strengthening Club Sustainability
Grassroots rugby clubs continue to face challenges around participation and membership retention. Walking Rugby provides an additional offer that can:
- Increase membership numbers
- Create new volunteering opportunities
- Boost clubhouse usage
- Generate additional social memberships
- Improve community engagement
Clubs specifically identify Walking Rugby as a way of attracting members who would not otherwise be involved in rugby.
Find your local rugby club that offers walking rugby here.
