What is Polybol?
Polybol is a new racket sport played on a portable court made of large circles. The court can be set up in minutes on any flat, clear space: beach, lawn, sports field, or any other area with enough room. Accessible to everyone, it allows 2 to 10 players to play and adapts to many different game configurations.
How many players can participate?
From 2 to 10 players. The most balanced formats range from 1-on-1 to 5-on-5. It is also possible to play with teams of different sizes (1-on-2, 2-on-3, etc.) or invent other configurations for leisure. This is the whole philosophy of Polybol: a game that adapts to the number of participants.
What is the minimum age to play?
As soon as a child is able to hold a racket and return the ball a few meters. For younger children, the circles can be moved closer together to facilitate rallies. Specifically sized circles may also be offered in the future.
Do you need to be athletic?
No. The rules are easy to learn and allow beginners to quickly enjoy the game. More athletic players will also find plenty to challenge them through movement, strategy, and different game configurations.
How long does it take to set up the court?
Depending on the number of circles used, allow between 1 and 5 minutes to fully set up the court.
Can you play on the beach?
Yes, and it's even one of the best places to discover Polybol. The sand allows for safe diving and makes rallies particularly spectacular.
Can you play on grass?
Yes. A flat, sufficiently large lawn is an excellent surface for playing.
Can you play on a basketball court or asphalt?
Yes. Any flat and sufficiently large surface is suitable. However, on a hard surface, diving is not recommended, and protective gear may be useful.
What does a Polybol kit contain?
A standard kit includes:
- 2 circles
- 2 rackets
- 1 ball
- The rules of the game
- A measuring or marking system to set up the court
Are the rules difficult?
No. The basics can be learned in a few minutes. More advanced rules and different configurations then allow for more tactical and competitive games.
Are smashes allowed?
Generally, no. Smashes are only allowed during an outside smash: the player must jump from their circle and land entirely outside of it, with no part of their body remaining in the circle. This rule promotes rallies while allowing for spectacular actions.
How long does a game last?
The duration depends on the players' level and the intensity of the rallies. A round generally lasts between 10 and 20 minutes. This estimate will be refined after initial testing.
Is the game suitable for children?
Yes. It is possible to move the circles closer together to reduce distances. Specifically sized courts may also be offered for younger children.
Can you play as a family?
Yes. Polybol was designed to bring generations together for a simple, friendly, and dynamic activity.
Is the court durable?
Yes. The circles are designed to withstand normal use and players stepping on them. You just need to follow the folding instructions to preserve their lifespan.
Is it easy to transport?
Yes. The kit fits into a shoulder bag approximately 75 cm in diameter. It is compact, relatively lightweight, and easy to carry.
Why choose Polybol over other racket sports?
Polybol does not seek to replace other racket sports. It offers a different experience: a portable court, a modular game accessible at different levels. It adapts to the number of players, the playing location, and above all, prioritizes the fun of playing together.
Can you play with an odd number of players?
Yes. Polybol is designed to be very modular. It is perfectly possible to play with teams of different sizes (1 vs 2, 2 vs 3, 3 vs 4, etc.) or to use other configurations adapted to the number of participants. The different court formats are explained in the "Game Formats" section.
Is the court easy to set up?
Yes. The court can be set up in under a minute. When opening, since the circle is kept under tension when folded, it is important to follow the unfolding procedure indicated to open it gradually and safely.
Is the court easy to store?
Yes. Folding simply requires a little practice the first time. After a few tries, an adult or teenager can fold the circle and put it back in its bag in about 2 minutes. For a child, adult help may be necessary.