And now Football Mid North Coast wants to encourage retirees and those over-50 to dust off their shin pads as they prepare to launch the program in Port Macquarie on August 4.

John Nehme and Tibby Forgach are the first players to have signed up for the low-impact version of The World Game.

The only rule surrounding the six-a-side fixtures is that one foot must be on the ground at all times.

"It will be a little bit hard to get used to the non-running caper, but we'll get there in the end," Mr Nehme said.

"Any sport that's played regardless of age ... it has to be fun. The worst thing about playing any sport is being on the sidelines injured and because this is low impact, chances are you'll be able to compete and play on a week-to-week basis.

"You get out of the house and above all ... it's exercise."

Mr Nehme and Mr Forgach have both played football in the higher impact form of the game either in the 11-a-side or six-a-side format.

Walking Football was a way to keep active without injuries being a factor.

Mr Forgach - who founded the program with FMNC general manager Bruce Potter - admitted he didn't think Walking Football would be successful until he saw a video of it online.

"It's a proper competition with Arsenal, Manchester United and all the different clubs playing in it," he said.

The Port Macquarie format will see the rules changed slightly with the focus on fun rather than results.

"Over here we have changed the rules slightly. They're not the same as the UK because it is a more professional competition over there," Mr Forgach said.

"Here it's for all people. I'd recommend going to the site 'Walking Football UK' and watch it and you will realise how good the sport is."

The competition is open to anyone over the age of 55 and is free to enter. The first session will be at the Port Macquarie hockey fields on August 4 from 11am.

For further information send an email to walking@footballmidnorthcoast.com.au.

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