by S. Alexander

Created on: May 07, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

Have a Ball this Summer

Whether your backyard is large or small there is sure to be a summer activity that will fit your needs and your budget on the list below. The best part of playing in your own space is that you can make the rules! Be inventive and create new versions of these games to meet the skill and fitness level of your friends and family.

The fascinating rhythm of a simple game of bounce can fill up an afternoon even if you are spending time alone. You can play this on the patio or against the garage door. Since you know yourself better than anyone else you can push the limits to really make yourself sweat whether you choose a racquetball, tennis ball or a Pinky high bounce. For an extra challenge, try the Z-Ball which is covered with round knobs that make its bounces particularly unpredictable.

Games for two include favorites like tether ball. If you like competitive sports, they don't get more in your face than this age old summertime favorite. Just tie the rope and ball to a tall pole and see who has what it takes to win. This one is sure to get your heart rate going strong and you may be surprised at how few matches it takes for you to call a time out to catch your breath. One on one soccer is another intense two player activity that doesn't require much set up. Just use a couple of laundry baskets or plastic storage tubs turned on their sides for goals. You can add players as necessary to make this into a team activity.

If you have a foursome you can make good use of a net for volleyball or badminton. It is a good idea to play cooperatively at first by trying to send the ball or shuttle over the net in such a way that your "opponents" have a good chance of getting it back over to your side. This keeps the game moving and is more fun for everyone than retrieving the ball from the bushes or the neighbor's yard after every hit. Once all the players have a good grasp on the game you can move on to more competitive play. If you don't have a net you can use the top bar of a swing set to play volley ball over. These games involve a lot of reaching and lunging that will increase your flexibility.

Finally, there are time honored games like catch, keep-away, and dodge-ball that can incorporate any number of players. To make sure your friends want to come back to your house next time, use inflatable safety balls like the Gertie or Funball for your dodge-ball games. You can get a cardio workout and have all the pleasure of throwing things at each other but no one will get hurt!

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