5 tribal games that build physical strength
What's the story
African tribal games have always been a part of culture, providing more than just fun.
These games are often a way to hone physical skills, such as leg strength and flexibility.
From these activities, one can improve their physical capabilities and keep the culture alive.
Here are five traditional African games you can play to build leg strength and flexibility.
Here's how they help.
Jumping dance
Maasai jumping dance
The Maasai jumping dance is another popular traditional activity of East Africa's Maasai people.
Participants jump vertically from a standing position without bending their knees.
Not just a test of endurance, the game also helps in strengthening the leg muscles, and improving balance.
The repetitive jumping motion enhances calf muscle strength and contributes to overall lower body fitness.
Stick fighting
Zulu stick fighting
Zulu stick fighting is an ancient martial art of the South African Zulu people.
It consists of using sticks for both offense and defense while remaining agile and light on one's feet.
The game demands participants to remain quick on their feet, which can help develop leg strength and flexibility.
The fast-paced movements involved can improve coordination and reflexes.
Genna Game
Ethiopian Genna game
Genna is an Ethiopian game like field hockey but played with curved sticks and a wooden ball.
Players run across fields, maneuvering the ball with precision while avoiding opponents' tackles.
This fast-paced game demands strong legs for running long distances at speed, enhancing your cardiovascular endurance as well as the muscle tone in your legs.
Ayo Game
Nigerian Ayo game
Ayo, a traditional Nigerian board game, fuses strategy with agility.
Played outside on oversized boards with stones/seeds, it involves players distributing them between pits to capture their competitor's pieces.
From requiring quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination to keeping you on your toes, the game improves lower limb flexibility and fitness overall with hours of fun.
Bullfighting dance
Kenyan bullfighting dance
The Kenyan bullfighting dance combines dance with faux fighting, imitating traditional bullfights at community gatherings such as weddings and harvest festivals.
Participants vigorously execute complex footwork to build muscles in the lower body, improving endurance and flexibility.
This is done through consistent practice, resulting in better athletic performance.