Counties Classic's Walking Basketball at Bruce Pulman

🏀 Join Counties Manukau Sport for Counties Classic's Walking Basketball - a fun, low-impact activity designed for seniors aged 60+ but open to all ages and abilities! Starting 15 July 2025, this 10-week programme runs every Tuesday at 10:00 AM at Pulman Arena in Takanini, Auckland.

Each 60-minute session offers:

• Low-impact walking basketball (no running or jumping)
• Gentle exercises to enhance mobility, coordination, and balance
• A safe and supportive space for all fitness levels
• Social time and refreshments following each session

Location: Pulman Arena, 90 Walters Road, Takanini, Auckland 2112

Cost Options:

• $250 per team (5-7 players) - perfect for lifestyle village teams
• $10 casual rate for individuals

Please bring your water bottle and appropriate clothing.

No registration required - just turn up and join in the fun! 🏀

Benefits of Walking Basketball for Seniors

Walking basketball is gaining popularity across New Zealand as an excellent physical activity option for older adults. Unlike traditional basketball, this modified version removes running, jumping, and physical contact, making it accessible to people of all fitness levels and abilities. 👴👵

Physical Benefits:

• Improves cardiovascular health without high-impact stress on joints
• Enhances balance and coordination, helping prevent falls
• Builds muscle strength and endurance
• Maintains mobility and flexibility
• Supports better cognitive function through movement and strategy

Social Benefits:

• Creates regular opportunities for social interaction
• Builds new friendships and community connections
• Combats isolation and loneliness
• Provides a supportive group environment

Walking basketball is particularly beneficial for those who may have played sports in their younger years but now need a lower-impact option. The familiar elements of basketball remain - shooting, passing, teamwork, and strategy - but at a pace that's manageable for older bodies.

The Counties Classic's programme specifically incorporates social time after each session, recognizing that the community aspect of sport is just as important as the physical benefits. This holistic approach to wellness makes walking basketball more than just exercise - it's a complete wellbeing activity.

Whether you're looking to maintain your fitness, recover from injury, or simply meet new people in a fun environment, walking basketball offers an engaging alternative to traditional exercise programmes for seniors. The team format also creates a sense of belonging and purpose that individual exercise often lacks.