Give walking basketball a go

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch with walking basketball players at Niagara Park Stadium

Coasties of all ages, genders and abilities who love basketball, but prefer to steer clear of running or jumping, are encouraged to give walking basketball a go with Central Coast Waves Basketball at 9am on Fridays at Niagara Park Stadium.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the all-inclusive sport was a great way for people of all abilities to get out in the community, stay active and improve health.

“Not everyone has the mobility or agility to run, jump, or move at speed,” she said.

“It’s so wonderful that walking basketball is available in our community.

“Beginners, right through to seasoned ‘ballers’, are perfectly positioned to take part in this fantastic low impact form of exercise.”

Chris Collins from Central Coast Waves Basketball said members of the community who wanted to avoid being sedentary are encouraged to go along.

“Previous sessions of walking basketball have been so well received, so it’s terrific to be running it again for 11 weeks, until April 12,” he said.

“People can simply turn up on a Friday morning and take part.

“There is no registration required.

“Whether people have played years ago and want to get back into it, or they have never touched a ball, or they want to try something less strenuous on the body, now is a great time to give walking basketball a go.”

Walking basketball involves 45 minutes of basketball-related light exercise and 15 minutes of discussing the amazing things participants achieved out on the court.

A tasty morning tea is served afterwards.

“There are no prerequisites; all we ask is for people to turn up, pay on the day and enjoy themselves,” Collins said.

“Come to a handful of sessions or come along every week.”

Interested players are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and to bring along their own water.

“With no running or jumping involved in walking basketball it’s ideal for older players, those coming back from injury or people just looking to avoid placing pressure on the joints,” Collins said.

The walking basketball program is run by Central Coast Waves Basketball in collaboration with companion driving service Driving Miss Daisy Gosford.

It is held on Fridays from 9am-10am at Niagara Park Stadium over 10 weeks.

The season started on February 2.

Sessions are $5 per week.