Health-related effects of walking football in older adults: A real-world longitudinal study across a season comparing two age groups

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the health-related effects of a 9-month walking-football (WF) season in already active older adults, comparing participants aged 50–59 and ≥60. The study employed a longitudinal pre–post design conducted in a real-world community setting. The participants were 32 adults aged over 50 (including 2 women) who completed a 9-month, twice-weekly outdoor WF program. Baseline and post-season assessments included body measurements, blood biomarkers, cardiovascular fitness (Bruce protocol), muscle strength (countermovement jump, handgrip strength, and isokinetic measurements), physical activity, and health-related quality of life. Training load was monitored via heart rate and session rating of perceived exertion. Statistical analyses compared pre- and post-season outcomes, as well as differences between age groups (50–59 vs. ≥ 60 years). Anthropometric parameters remained stable over the season, with participants aged 50–59 showing higher weight, BMI, and muscle mass than those aged ≥60 (p < 0.05). Reductions occurred in blood glucose, along with favorable changes in lipid profiles in older participants (p < 0.05), and increased vitamin D (p < 0.05). Creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and adiponectin decreased over the season (p < 0.05). Although the differences were not statistically significant, older adults maintained peak VO₂, whereas younger participants exhibited a small decline. Muscle strength decreased across both age groups, specifically handgrip strength and knee extension (p < 0.001–0.05). Physical activity levels showed a non-significant increase in total and high-intensity METs, especially among younger participants. In conclusion, walking football may help preserve cardiometabolic health, functional capacity, and quality of life in physically active older adults throughout a competitive season. Nevertheless, specific program adjustments—such as higher training loads, the inclusion of strength or resistance components, and age-tailored modifications—could be required to maximize outcomes, particularly among younger participants.