Recreation is any activity that people do during their free time to relax, have fun, and refresh their minds and bodies.

It helps us recover from work, school stress, or daily activities. Recreation is voluntary, meaning you choose to do it because it makes you happy—not because you are forced.

Example: Playing football with friends after school, dancing, or going for a walk.

	Work	Recreation
1	Done to earn a living	Done for fun or relaxation
2	May be stressful or tiring	Refreshes and energizes the body and mind
3	Required or compulsory	Voluntary (your choice)
4	Often done for others (job)	Done for yourself

1. Indoor Recreation - These are activities done inside a building or home.


Examples:


• Playing board games (e.g., Ludo, Scrabble)


• Watching TV or movies


• Drawing or painting


• Reading books


• Table tennis


• Playing musical instruments



2. Outdoor Recreation - These are activities done outside, in open spaces.


Examples:


• Football


• Swimming


• Running or jogging


• Gardening


• Camping


• Hiking


• Fishing

1. To relax the body and mind.


2. To build social relationships (by playing with others).


3. To help people develop skills and talents.


4. To prevent boredom and reduce stress.


5. To promote physical fitness and health.


6. To help people use free time wisely.

1. Improves mental health – it helps reduce stress, depression, and anxiety.


2. Boosts physical health – recreational activities keep your body active and strong.


3. Encourages creativity and talent – e.g., dancing, drawing, or singing.


4. Teaches teamwork and cooperation – especially in group games or sports.


5. Builds confidence and self-esteem – when you perform well or achieve something.


6. Promotes social interaction – it helps you make friends and relate well with others.


7. Enhances happiness and joy – doing what you love makes you feel good.


8. Reduces bad habits – it keeps you busy with good activities instead of harmful ones.

1. National Stadium, Abuja


2. Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos


3. Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River


4. Yankari Game Reserve, Bauchi


5. Murtala Mohammed Square, Kaduna

1. It should be safe


2. It should be fun and enjoyable


3. It should not harm your body or health


4. It should fit your age and ability


5. It should promote physical and mental well-being

Recreation	Activities done during free time for enjoyment and relaxation
Leisure	The free time itself, when you are not working or busy
Play	Simple, unstructured fun activity, often done by children but also adults