Pétanque, sometimes called boules, is a target sport, where participants throw weighty metal balls, aiming to get them as close as possible to a small wooden target ball, called a cochonet or jack. It is related to Italian bocce and lawn bowls.  

 

The name pétanque (pronounced as pay tonk) comes from the Provencial words “pieds tanques” meaning: feet stuck to the ground. This is because competitors stand with both feet inside a small circle to throw.

 

Pétanque is a quick and easy sport to learn. It’s an enjoyable, social, competitive team game that utilises and develops concentration, strategising, mindfulness, focus and body-mind coordination. Pétanque’s health benefits include stress relief, improved flexibility, light cardio and the positive mental and social rewards of a sociable outdoor activity.

​

This classic French game is great if you’re looking for a fun activity with friends and family. It’s a game for everyone, where grandparents, parents and children can play on equal terms, as neither age, gender or ability matter.