[Sports] Recreational games using a ball [Play]
Here are a variety of ball-based recreational activities.
We’ve gathered ball games that can be enjoyed by everyone—from children to seniors!
From sports aiming for the pinnacle at the Olympics or World Cup to simple time-killers, the variety of sports and games that use a “ball” is practically limitless.
Many people love ball games regardless of age or gender!
If you’re looking for “ball-based activities everyone can play together,” be sure to use this as a reference.
You might even use these games as inspiration to invent your own original new ball sport!
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[Sports] Recreational Games Using a Ball [Play] (41–50)
dodgeball
It’s a classic ball game, and many people probably played dodgeball every recess back in elementary school.
Since the game is played with infielders and outfielders on the court, you need several players to play proper dodgeball.
If you don’t have enough people, you can try a variation like “naka-ate” (hit-in-the-middle).
Also, when adults and kids or boys and girls play together, you can add a rule like “Anyone who’s good at throwing may only use their non-dominant hand,” so everyone can have fun together!
Bound Tennis
Because the ball bounces well, even people without tennis experience can get really into it.
You do need to prepare a bit of equipment, but unlike tennis it doesn’t require as much space or a dedicated court, and the fact that you can play indoors, such as in a gym, is a big plus.
It’s especially recommended as a company recreation activity.
Circular Kick Bowling
When we think of bowling, it’s usually a game where you throw a ball at pins—but this is a bowling game you play with your feet, kicking the ball to knock down the pins.
Everyone sits in a circle, and lots of pins made from plastic bottles are placed in the center of the circle.
Each bottle has a score written on it, and teams compete by adding up the points of the pins they knock down.
The plastic bottles vary in size, and you can adjust the scoring—for example, larger bottles with only a little water inside are easier to knock down, so give them lower points.
G Dodgeball
“G-Dodgeball” is a hugely popular team-based game in after-school care.
By adding a new role—the “Goalie,” a target that must be protected—to regular dodgeball, the game gains strategy and tension.
Each team selects one Goalie from among the first- or second-graders, and if that child is hit, the game ends immediately.
The infield players act as “Guardians,” doing everything they can to protect the Goalie.
Meanwhile, the outfield has “Getters” waiting to throw the ball at the opposing Goalie.
Because there are defined roles, everyone can shine, and with age-appropriate tweaks, the game evolves into an activity that excites players across grade levels.
It’s a great example of how a few simple rule additions can make dodgeball so much more fun.
Dodgeball tag
Ball Tag with a Throw is a high-energy indoor game that’s hugely popular in after-school programs.
The rules are simple: the “it” player chases with a ball and tries to tag the others by hitting them with it.
Despite its simplicity, the speed and thrill make it incredibly exciting! Whoever gets hit by the ball becomes the next “it,” so the game keeps changing rapidly and never gets boring.
Using a soft ball makes it safe for indoor play.
In smaller spaces, you can adjust by setting boundaries or requiring shorter strides.
It’s a perfect game to bring out lots of energy and create a lively, fun time.
1v1 ball carrying
Enjoyable even 1-on-1! Let us introduce an adapted ball-carrying game called “Flag Football.” In this sport, you carry the ball into the opponent’s territory.
The defense stops the advancing offense by pulling the flag attached to the ball carrier or by driving them out of bounds.
A standard game lasts about 20 minutes, but it’s also a good idea to adjust the duration based on the number of players.
The rules are simple, so everyone from kids to adults can enjoy it.
Try adapting it as an event for your sports day, too!
Rag-Wiping Ball Carry Relay
Turn floor-wiping into a game! Here’s a fun idea: make a ball-carrying relay using the floor-wiping style.
Set up a course with cones, and carry a ball while “wiping” your way around.
The first to complete two laps wins.
It works as an individual race, but team relays—like groups of three with the number of balls matching the team size—are also recommended.
It helps build lower-body strength and fosters teamwork.
Adults can enjoy it too, so try adapting it as an event for your sports day.