In an age where screens dominate our daily lives, physical play is more important than ever. Studies show that excessive screen time and digital communication have contributed to a decline in social confidence among younger generations. Add to that the lingering effects of pandemic isolation, and it’s clear that getting kids out of the house and engaging in real-world activities is more crucial than ever.
One of the best ways to foster this engagement is through active competition—physical games that challenge kids both socially and physically. Competitive activities like laser tag, bowling, and mini-golf provide a structured way for children to develop essential life skills. They teach kids how to handle challenges, build resilience, and set goals while keeping them active and entertained.
The Social and Physical Benefits of Competitive Play
Competitive games offer a wealth of benefits for children of all ages. Socially, they help kids develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Whether strategizing in a laser tag arena, celebrating a hole-in-one, or cheering on teammates at the bowling alley, these activities encourage cooperation, negotiation, and sportsmanship.
Physically, competitive play promotes agility, coordination, and endurance. Unlike traditional sports, laser tag offers an inclusive experience for all kids—regardless of athletic ability. The fast-paced nature of the game improves reflexes, encourages movement, and helps build cardiovascular health without feeling like structured exercise.
Different Ages, Different Benefits
For younger children, competitive activities introduce foundational skills like turn-taking, sharing, and basic strategy. They build confidence as they see their skills improve and learn how to win—and lose—with grace. For adolescents, these games take on a new dimension. They challenge players to think critically, refine leadership abilities, and develop strategic decision-making.
Laser Tag: Fun, Engaging, and Surprisingly Healthy
At Zone, we’ve taken this one step further. Using the advanced sensors on all Helios generations of equipment, we now track key activity metrics such as calories burned, distance traveled, and even height traversed during gameplay. This means that beyond being an exciting, immersive experience, laser tag is also a great way to stay active.
The numbers speak for themselves:
📍 The average player burns 58 calories per game
📍 Players travel an impressive 1.5 KM in a single 12-minute session
This makes laser tag not just an engaging and profitable attraction for operators, but also a fun, fitness-friendly activity for kids and families alike.
In a world where passive entertainment is the norm, active competition offers a much-needed alternative. Whether it’s the thrill of the game, the camaraderie of teamwork, or the physical benefits of movement, competitive activities like laser tag provide an experience that’s both enriching and unforgettable.
Zone has been providing these experiences for the last 37 years and counting!
