Petanque, also known as boules, is traditionally a French social sport, though is now played all over the world. There is a cochonnet or jack, a small wooden ball that is thrown, which you want to get your boules closest to. There are two types of moves: 1) a pointer, where you try to get your boule closest to the jack, and 2) a shooter, where you aim to remove an opponent’s boule. The first to 13 points wins the game.
Health benefits include:
- Encourages social connection Petanque is a bit like billiards in that anyone can play with you! Go to a park and play with friends, and encourage others to come and join you. Throughout France, you see men and women playing petanque and having a chat in any public space, whether it be in a picnic area, at the beach or a gravel parking lot! You don't need a special place for petanque!
- It's low impact Petanque involves throwing, bending and walking, and is a low impact sport. It's therefore very unlikely that you will injure yourself. It is a gentle workout that anyone can do. You do quite alot of squats and throw the ball, palm face down, in a kind of reverse spin.
- Requires concentration, tactics and strategy It's as much a mental game, as it is a physical one. You have to decide which shot to play and when to attack.
- Anyone can play It's a game where men can compete with women, and adults with children. Anyone can play with each other. It is very equalising.
- It's easy to learn The rules are simple and after a quick explanation, anyone can play. Of course, to learn the tactics and best moves can take much longer!
- Gets you outdoors Petanque is an outdoor game so it gets you out in the fresh air. If it's sunny, you'll get the added benefit of Vitamin D, which boosts your immunity.
- Relieves stress and anxiety It's a fun game that relieves stress and prevents social isolation. It encourages camaraderie and reduces anxiety.
- Improves your judgement and accuracy Accuracy and distance judging are two of the important skills for petanque. You'll get more skilful and increase your flexibility.
"Petanque: because real sports require more than one ball." T-shirt saying