[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] (51–60)
Safe baseball

Let’s play using soft materials! Here’s a safe baseball idea.
When you think of baseball, you probably imagine wooden or metal bats and cork-filled balls.
But when playing with preschoolers or kids who aren’t familiar with baseball, how about enjoying the game with soft equipment? Use a pool noodle cut in half as the bat, and a ball made by crumpling newspaper.
Give it a try!
Indoor basketball hoop craft

Let’s play with a handmade basketball set! Here are some ideas for crafting an indoor basketball hoop.
After watching Olympic basketball, many kids probably started admiring the players, right? This time, let’s try making an indoor basketball game you can build and play with.
You’ll need two hangers, yarn, cardboard, scissors, and more.
It’s great because the steps are simple.
This is also a recommended idea for when you want to get moving indoors!
Sport Yukigassen

It’s a sport that lets you enjoy the classic, well-loved winter game everyone knows: snowball fights.
In sport snowball fighting, teams compete to see how many times they can hit opponents with snowballs within a set time on a court.
On the court, there are walls called “chateaux” and “shelters,” which players use to hide behind while seizing openings to attack or to protect themselves from the opponent’s throws.
You might think you need a snowy place, but you can play anywhere by substituting the walls with cardboard or similar materials and using rubber balls instead of snowballs!
Mixed-age dodgeball

Let’s nurture compassion and cooperation! Here are ideas for mixed-age dodgeball.
Younger kids are often curious about and admire the games older kids play, right? This idea is perfect for situations commonly seen in after-school programs! When children of different ages play together, older kids can demonstrate leadership, and younger kids can learn the importance of helping one another.
Emphasizing teamwork, with rules and flow designed so everyone can have fun, will also help improve communication skills through the game.
By playing, children naturally develop the ability to cooperate and deepen their bonds with their peers.
[Sports] Recreational games using a ball [Play] (61–70)
Gateball

Gateball, often seen in parks, isn’t just for seniors—it’s actually popular with young people too! Played between two teams of five, the game begins by passing a ball through a gate.
But it’s not just about moving the ball; you also need smart strategies, like advancing your team’s balls advantageously and blocking the opponent’s.
It looks simple, but you only understand its appeal once you play.
As a recreational sport that anyone can join, gateball is one we’d love to see more people take up.
Ball Rolling Relay

Ball-rolling relays are also ideal for exercising your legs and lower back.
The rules are simple: aim for the goal while weaving through multiple cones set up in a zigzag pattern.
However, you must roll the ball—you can’t hold it or dribble it.
This means you need to control the ball quickly while keeping a half-squat posture.
It’s more strenuous than it looks, so be sure to stretch well before you try it.
The smaller the ball, the harder it is to roll.
Ball-passing game

It’s a game where each team lines up in a single vertical file and transports a ball.
The person at the front holds the ball, passes it to the person behind, then moves to the back of the line, causing the whole line to advance.
The first team to reach the goal wins! Adding rules for how to pass the ball—such as passing it under the legs or over the head—makes it even more fun.
Since it’s crucial not to drop the ball, teamwork becomes very important, helping players develop cooperation and communication skills.



