Walking netball keeps the passing, shooting and seven court positions used in standard netball. Modified movement, possession and defending rules slow the game and give players more time. Local organisers can adjust the format for their group, so it is worth checking the rules before your first session.
The rules that change
Under Netball NSW's modified rules, players cannot run or jump. They may hold the ball for four seconds and take one extra step. A defender must stay three feet, or about 0.9 metres, from the player with the ball.
The game still uses the seven standard netball positions. Organisers may use fewer players or half a court when numbers are low. Rolling substitutions are also allowed under the NSW format.
What a game can look like
The NSW guide suggests four six-minute quarters. It includes one-minute breaks after the first and third quarters, plus three minutes at half-time. Organisers may shorten or extend those times for their competition.
This means walking netball does not always use a smaller court. Some groups use a full court, while others choose a half-court game. Ask the organiser about session length, court size and substitutions before you attend.
Who can play walking netball
Walking netball may suit returning players, beginners and people who prefer a slower version of the sport. Age limits and entry requirements vary between programmes. One Riverland group reported by the ABC included players aged from 15 to 80, but that range does not apply to every session.
You still need to pass, catch, change direction and move around the court. Ask the organiser what the session involves and whether a trial is available. If an injury or medical condition affects you, seek advice from a qualified health professional first.
What the research found
A 2021 English evaluation examined a Walking Netball programme for Women's Institute members. It used programme records, interviews and several quantitative studies. The programme reached 3,148 members, and 87.7% of groups continued beyond the first 20 sessions.
One part compared 30 walking netball participants with 22 controls over six months. Researchers reported improvements in gait speed, balance, sit-to-stand ability and a six-minute walk test. They did not find improvements in muscular strength or overall physical function.
The intervention participants were women aged 53 to 77 who were retired or moving out of full-time work. The programme was also delivered in England, not Australia. These limits mean the results cannot describe every player or local session.
How one Australian group started
Riverland coordinator Kerry Albrecht found walking netball through an online video. Netball SA then ran a workshop in May 2023. Her South Australian group went on to start an eight-week season, according to ABC News.
Player Kathy Schliebs had moved from playing A-grade netball to umpiring after several injuries. She told the ABC that the modified game let her return at a pace she could manage. The modified pace brought an experienced player back onto the court.
Finding a local session
Start with local netball activities on KeepActive. Contact three to five nearby clubs or associations because programmes and available places differ. Many clubs also run open training or social options alongside their regular competitions.
Ask each organiser about age rules, fees, registration, court surface and session dates. Also confirm whether beginners can attend a trial and what clothing or equipment you need.
