Back to five-a-side, with knees that remember 2014

Plenty of places run casual games you can join on your own. Bring astro trainers and do the warm-up nobody else bothers with.

Outdoors · By the Man Brief team · 1 min read · Sunday 20 September 2026

Local leisure centres and pitch operators often run casual games where you book as an individual and get put into a team. It's an easy way back in without a regular side.

Moulded studs or astro trainers suit artificial pitches. Running shoes slide on the surface and are harder on ankles.

Warm up for five minutes before kick-off, even if nobody else does. If you have a health condition or haven't exercised in a long time, check with your GP first.