Old-Fashioned Outdoor Fun

Rediscover these traditional games and get active!

	Aerobic (heart-lung) conditioning
	Balance
	Eye-hand or eye-foot coordination
	Flexibility
	Muscle strength and endurance

Staying fit should be easier now that summer’s here. For one thing, you’re motivated—you want to look good in that bathing suit. “And the warm weather opens up many more ways to be active,” says Diana Wentling, exercise specialist with Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “Variety in your exercise routine is important, to keep your muscles challenged.”

Just don’t forget the most important element: having fun! “When exercise is really fun, it doesn’t feel like work,” Wentling says. “You don’t even realize all the physical benefits you’re getting, not to mention the stress relief.”

For surefire enjoyment, try a “blast from the past.” These simple, low-cost, oldfashioned summer games will get you, your family and friends moving and laughing.

Pogo Stick
Jumping on this device is definitely an activity for the young and fit.

Horseshoes
This all-American tossing game will do wonders for your upper body. The horseshoes are too heavy for little ones; give them small hoops and shorten the course.

Hide and Seek
It’s a summer favorite for all ages. Try a variation called Sardines, in which “It” runs and hides while the rest of you close your eyes and count. When you find “It,” hide with him!

Tag
This classic chase game has lots of variations, including Freeze Tag and Kick the Can. Best for those who are nimble.

Frisbee
Even the dog will join in for this family favorite, suitable for all ages.

Tug of War
It’s the perfect team strength-builder. Make sure the two sides are more or less evenly balanced and tug away!

Hopscotch, Jump Rope
Both these games will take you back to childhood—and give your cardiovascular system a real boost.

Sack Races
Hopping around in a sack is a good workout—but better for children and young adults than older folks.

Croquet
Almost anyone can play this stately lawn game. If you have back problems when you bend over, make sure your mallet handle is long enough.

Badminton
This racquet sport is fast, but the light equipment demands less strength than tennis. Lower the net for short players.

Hula Hoop
This ‘50’s fad is fun for all ages, but stretch and warm up well if you have lowback problems.

Want to Know More about how much activity your family really needs and how to play these and other games? Call 610-402-CARE.

Published from Healthy You Magazine, July-August 2008

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