“It’s fun, it’s friendly, it’s a slowed down version of the real game.”

Those are the words of Natalie Naylor, who was talking about walking netball, a sport she has done so much to promote in recent times.

Natalie, a keen netball player who has just become a mum for a second time, set up Cheltenham-based United Walking Netball Club five years ago with her friend and co-host Janet Cole.

Walking netball, as the title suggests, means no running. You also can't jump, but you do get extra time and steps to pass the ball. 

It's non-competitive and supports a variety of players, including pre/post natal, those recovering from injuries/illness and people with disabilities.

Many of the members join because they haven't played since school, but once loved the game and want to give it another go.

“It’s applicable to anybody,” said Natalie. “The ages range from 20 to 70-plus, it’s a version of the game that can be adapted to suit the ability of any player.”

And Natalie is talking from experience because five years ago she tore her ACL.

“It was a big loss when I couldn’t play,” she said. “I found walking netball when I was recovering and that’s when I decided to create the club.

“I wanted to offer something for people who found themselves in a similar position to me.”

United Netball Club have been an established club in the Gloucestershire County League for many years now and Natalie first started playing for them some eight or nine years ago.

Walking netball was described as “a giggle and a wiggle” when it was launched by England Netball and Natalie continued: “It’s a great team sport, but the results don’t matter.

“It’s great for people’s mental and physical health, you’re meeting people, making friends and exercising all at once.”

United Walking Netball Club meet every Thursday evening and they also take part in friendly matches or festivals every couple of months or so.

For more information, email unitedwalkingnetball@gmail.com