Outdoor Games for Fun and Health

People love games. They are great for getting people back together. Games unify us and provide some healthy competition. They challenge us to progress and become stronger people. Without games we might live much more boring lives. But what could be better than staying in all day in order to play your favorite board game with a friend?

While some people might say the board game, most of us would agree that there is nothing better than an outdoor game with your friends. What is it about a group of buddies hanging out on a beautiful day? The competition of an outdoor game pushes us to exercise and share fun experiences. It also gets us outside on a beautiful day when the sun is shining. Studies have shown that time spent outside in the sun actually affects our moods for the better. Staying indoors for the winter without any sunlight can have serious effects on your body and spirit. Playing in the outdoors invigorates your whole system and helps your body to be more active than it otherwise would be. This level of activity can greatly improve your mood and well being.

Outdoor games promote emotional health too.

So what are the great outdoor games? Clearly football is a great outdoor game for a large group. The game is good because it is fast paced and highly physical. You can play it touch or full tackle depending on the group you have. Football is also a good game because everyone on the field has an important role to play in winning.

Soccer is a great game if you like to run a lot. It can be difficult for those of us who do not use our feet a lot. However, for those of us who have played before, soccer can be a great outdoor game. It is extremely fast paced and an excellent source of exercise.
There are several outdoor games that we forget about. Ever played bocci ball? This is a great game for a less active crowd. The same can be said for horseshoes, which almost anyone can play.

Baseball can be a great game, although it is fairly slow and requires a decent pitcher. Softball is probably a better bet for a large group of inexperienced people. In softball the ball is pitched underhand, which allows it to be hit much more frequently, thus creating a more interesting game.

Rugby is an excellent game but a little rough. Be careful when you plan your outdoor game day. Don’t plan a game that is too rough or that will leave some people out. You want a good competition but not a massacre.

Other good outdoor games are ones that involve a particular environment. Beach games are a real favorite because you have the water there to cool off in. Beach volleyball is a game that just about anyone can get into. Football played in the water is also a real favorite of most groups.

These are just a few examples of great outdoor games. There are literally hundreds and hundreds more for you to choose from. When you plan to play outdoor games remember the needs of those who you will play with. Remember to invite people who get along. Outdoor games can get competitive and sometimes violent if the wrong people are involved. The last thing you want are people leaving your outdoor activity angry with each other. Make sure the outdoor game does not get too out of control. Bring some refreshments and make sure to wear sunscreen. With some planning you will have the time of your life playing outdoor games!