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On a sunny day kids know that the best place to be is playing outside. We adults could learn a thing or two from them. So if the sun is out, why not head to the backyard for some old school fun? You get to spend time with your family, exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and save money at the same time. Let loose that inner child and be healthy while enjoying some of these classic backyard games.

Wiffleball/Kickball If you have a group of friends or family together, a friendly game of wiffleball is a guaranteed way to have some fun during a nice afternoon. It's an easy way to take part in America's pastime without having to worry about such nuisances as injuries and skill levels. Just like wiffleball, kickball is a great way to have everybody play together and be involved in one activity at the same time. Not to mention that running the bases and fielding that big red ball or that far-flying wiffleball is a fun way to burn some calories.

Frisbee There are lots of games that can be played simply with a single Frisbee. Sometimes just chasing the disc can wear you out depending on the skill level of the person attempting to throw it to you. But other than tossing it back and forth, a game of ultimate Frisbee can be an excellent way to get that heart pumping. The game requires two teams of at least two people, and the goal is to get to the other end of the yard without dropping the Frisbee or taking steps while holding the Frisbee. It's a lot of fun and an amazing cardio workout.

Badminton/Volleyball You can purchase an inexpensive badminton set at any sporting goods store, or you could purchase a more durable net and use it for both badminton and volleyball. Both games are fun for two or more players and both are activities that require energy, concentration, and quick movements.

Soccer/Basketball/Fo otball It's true that you typically need a basketball hoop set up for one of these activities, but they all can be played without requiring lots of space or lots of players. Though we often attend these sporting events as spectators or watch them on television, we tend to forget how easy it is to step outside and take part in them ourselves.

Horseshoes/Croquet/B occe These games might not be quite as intense of a workout, but they'll still get you out and moving while having fun in the sun. These three are the time-honored classics. You don't hear about lawn darts much anymore, most likely because it just seems that it would be synonymous with loss of eyesight. Cornhole, or bean bag toss, is another backyard game that has recently gained a lot of popularity on many midwestern college campuses.

These are just a few of the multitude of backyard games that you and your friends and family can enjoy. Just take a stroll down the aisle at your local sporting goods store for more ideas. Otherwise be creative, how long has it been since you've played hide and seek or freeze tag? As kids we didn't worry about going to the gym to drop a few pounds, or stress ourselves out making sure that we were setting aside family time. So let that inner child loose and head for the backyard because that sunshine is calling!

Learn more about this author, Billy Brody.
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