Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK; around 1 in 8 men are diagnosed with it at some point in their lives. While treatment options have improved, many men still experience physical and emotional challenges, including maintaining physical fitness. Exercise is effective in improving a range of physical and emotional outcomes for men with prostate cancer, including fatigue, muscle strength, and depression.
Walking football with Arsenal in the Community
Stride On is a transformative health and wellbeing initiative dedicated to supporting men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Funded by the Cancer Fund, this innovative project provides a welcoming space for participants to connect, share their experiences, and engage in low-impact exercise through walking football. Following the support group, participants enjoy a one-hour walking football session coached by Arsenal in the Community trainers. Walking football is designed to be inclusive and minimise injury risks.
We’re funding weekly walking football sessions and a prostate cancer support group at The Arsenal Hub. Walking football is an inclusive, low impact sport, helping to improve fitness, coordination, and strength. The club offers a social and supportive environment, where men can connect with others going through similar experiences and enjoy the benefits of team sports. The support group is a safe space for discussing the learnings, complications, and difficulties associated with a prostate cancer diagnosis. And, of course, whilst each session is inclusive to all ability levels, there's always some match play, as we know participants are ultimately there to play football!
In February, the Stride On Walking Football group were invited to a pitch side presentation to watch the players warm up.
Once per season, a group supported by Arsenal in the Community gets the chance to attend a match day thanks to donated tickets from Arsenal kit maker and sponsor Adidas. As an extra special bonus, the 13 members of the group, as well as UCLH urology consultant John Withington, were granted the opportunity to be interviewed on the pitch by the stadium announcer during the halftime presentation in front of the crowd at a home game vs Liverpool in February. The project also featured in the match-day programme and was supported by an awareness and risk-checking campaign throughout the stadium, including posters with QR codes in the toilets, all in association with our project partner, Prostate Cancer UK.
Rhys Ratcliffe, Health & Wellbeing Manager, Arsenal Football Club
“Arsenal in the Community are so proud of the growth of the Stride On Walking Football project, as well as the progression of its members during their time with us. The safe space created has led to the men involved having important conversations and sharing lived experiences, which has enormously benefited them. The walking football has also shown the guys that no matter their situation, they can stay fit and kick a ball around as much as anybody when it is done in the right way and at the right level”.
Growing Community and Impact
Since launching in October 2023, Stride On has grown from 11 participants to 43, welcoming men of diverse ages and stages of their cancer treatment. Impact evaluation shows significant improvements in well-being, supported by participant testimonials highlighting the value of shared experiences.
“I have become more aware and accepting of my current health situation. I now believe that the ability to openly discuss my cancer issues with my contemporaries is invaluable and key to my mental health. Also that playing in a team game brings many advantages including fitness and a sense of well-being”.
Looking Ahead
Dr John Withington, UCLH Consultant Urologist and UCL lecturer, emphasises the significance of this project, noting its invaluable role in offering support beyond clinical settings. “Our research aims to provide robust evidence for the program’s effectiveness and pave the way for broader implementation across health services.”
To take part or to find out more email Rhys at rratcliffe