Watching the Olympics will inspire you. Summer is a great time to challenge family and neighbors to a little friendly competition. Here are a few ideas. Don’t forget to have fun!
Ready, Set, Race
There’s nothing more classic than a running race. Decide where the race will start and finish. It can be as short or as long as you like. Who’s the fastest? Let’s find out!
Kick the Ball
YELLOW DOG PRODUCTIONS/GETTY IMAGESKickball is a summer favorite. On a street without traffic, draw bases with chalk. Are you playing on grass? Old shirts or toys will work!
Up and Over
STOCKPLANETS/GETTY IMAGESGrab a ball and a net. It’s time for volleyball! No net? Tie a jump rope between two trees. In a yard or park, turn on sprinklers for added fun.
Chalk Games
ROBERT KNESCHKE—EYEEM/GETTY IMAGESYou can do a lot with a piece of chalk. Draw a hopscotch court. Or host a guessing game. Can a friend guess what you’re trying to draw?
Toss It In
CAVAN IMAGES/GETTY IMAGESIn the game cornhole, players throw beanbags at targets. Don’t have beanbags? Use little balls or toys. Don’t have cornhole targets? Buckets or bowls work.
Knock 'em Down
JOHN D. BUFFINGTON—GETTY IMAGESTry lawn bowling! Find a patch of grass in a yard or park. Set up your “pins.” Empty bottles work well. Roll a ball at them. How many can you knock down?
Jump for Joy
ALYSON ALIANO—GETTY IMAGESHow long can you jump rope without getting tangled up? You can also try some jump-rope tricks. Can you cross and uncross your arms?
Off to the Races
DAVE NAGEL—GETTY IMAGESRelay races are exciting. How fast can you run with an egg on a spoon? Pillowcases are great for a potato-sack race.