Hosting your own sports day

Stuck for ideas on how to keep the kids entertained? Look no further, try setting up your own mini sports day. It can be just a family fun day, or you could invite friends or neighbours along too.

However you do it, have some fun, get active and feel great!

Get set

First, where will you host your sports day? If it’s in your garden, make sure there’s enough room to spread out without squashing flowers! If you need more space, head to your local park or beach – sand adds to the challenge! 

Be sure to include firm favourites

• Races: egg and spoon, sack, hula-hoop, 3-legged, relay, beanbag, skipping, hopping 
• Tug of war
• Limbo
• Quoits 
• Wellie wanging – throw your wellie as far as you can. No wellies? Why not do your own version using flip-flops, slippers or whatever footwear you have to hand? 
• Football, rounders, hockey, basketball, tennis, badminton
• Obstacle courses

Get wet

If it’s a hot day, cool down with some water games. Add to the fun, get soaked!

• Sponge toss – throw soaking wet sponges at a target, seeing who can score the most hits
• Water balloon throwing – put some water in balloons, taking care not to fill them too much or they’ll burst sooner than you want them to! Toss the water balloons between contestants, whoever bursts the water balloon loses! Watch Heather Fisher, along with her family and friends, demonstrating how it’s done.

Remember, stay safe

• It’s easy to forget about sunscreen when you’re caught up in a race. Remember to apply sunscreen before the fun begins and re-apply regularly during rest breaks.
• Make sure you bring refreshments to stay well hydrated. Drink more when you’re active, it’s thirsty work!
• Always wear protective clothing to suit the weather and type of activity. For example, you might find knee pads helpful if you're diving around a lot.
• Bring a change of clothes if you do any wet challenges. It can get uncomfortable if the clouds turn up and you’re dripping wet. Brrrrr! 

Stay sporty

Whatever your age, hosting your own sports day is an opportunity to spend time together, have fun and enjoy the outdoors! Youngsters can learn a thing or two from older generations – and vice versa! Sports day challenges are about technique as well as speed.

If you do decide to host your own sports day, we’d love to see how you got on. Why not upload your photos to social media and tag us @SimplyhealthUK