Whether you need an activity to release some extra energy, want to lose weight or simply need some fresh air, there are many types of active games you can play outside. These engaging activities will exercise your body as well as entertain your mind as you learn the rules and face off against your friends.
Running Games
There are many simple running games you can play outside that require no equipment and only a few rules. A basic game of tag will keep you active and test your stamina as you run for long periods of time. Choose one player to be "it," and run away from that player as fast as you can; if you are tagged, you become "it" next. For a change on basic tag, try the variation on Games Kids Plays' website called Amoeba tag. In this version, if you are tagged you link arms with "it" and help to catch the other players. Another outdoor running activity is called Run and Scream. To play, explains Traditional Native Games' website, everyone takes a deep inhale and runs as far as possible while screaming. The player with the ability to go the longest wins.
Throwing Games
Games that focus on throwing can also keep you active outdoors. Knockout is a basketball-inspired throwing game that will keep you on your toes. The University of Maine explains that in knockout, you start at the foul line and shoot until you score a basket. If the player in line behind you scores before you do, you are knocked out.
You can also play another throwing game called disc golf. Establish targets that you are aiming at, such as a tree or fence post. Then, take turns with other players as you toss Frisbees at your targets.
Hiding Games
In an outdoor environment there are plenty of places to hide, and there are many hiding games you can play. Camouflage is an engaging game in wooded areas. In this game, you close your eyes while the rest of the players hide somewhere that they can still see you. Open your eyes and look around for the people hiding around the landscape. The last person you spot can become the new seeker. Another engaging hiding game is called sardines. This game is similar to camouflage, except only one person hides and all the other players must seek. When players find the hidden person, they must join them in hiding and squish into their hiding place.
Kicking Games
A classic kicking game that will keep you moving is soccer, one of the most popular outdoor sports played worldwide. You will need a soccer ball , and open field and a group of people to play this game to cover the many positions, including goalkeeper, forwards and defense. The goal of the game is score by moving the ball into the other team's net without using your hands. According to Serious Running's website, soccer players run an average of over six miles per game, so this game is sure to keep you active. Kickball is another time-tested outdoor game that is ideal for backyards. To play, split up into two teams -- one fielding and one kicking. Set up bases as you would for baseball, but have the pitcher roll a soft rubber ball to the kicker. As in baseball, there are three outs per inning. You can get someone out by catching their ball, forcing them out at the base or by throwing the ball at them while they are running.
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