“In this olympiad, it is not necessary to run faster or throw farther than the others: solving a puzzle is also part of the competition.”
This is the philosophy driving the “Jeux sous toutes les formes” (Games in All Forms), a two-day event currently transforming the Palais des sports de Gerland in Lyon. Held this weekend, November 14–15, the competition shifts the focus from elite athletic performance to a broader definition of ability, blending physical activity with mental dexterity.
Now in its third edition, the event emerged in 2024 in the wake of the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. Reporting by La Clé Publique indicates that the program features more than 40 distinct activities. Participants move through these stations in teams of two to four, aiming to accumulate points over a two-hour window.
The structure is intentionally balanced. A competitor who struggles to sink a basketball can offset that deficit by performing well in a logic-based tangram puzzle or a quiz on the history of Olympism. By design, physical endurance, balance, and logical reasoning are weighted equally, ensuring no single aptitude dictates the final score.
The venue at 350 avenue Jean-Jaurès has drawn a diverse crowd of families and individuals since opening its doors. On Saturday, the archery stands and tabletop gaming areas saw high traffic, while organizers expanded the scope of this year’s event to include a “sport-santé” (sport-health) component.
This new track offers guidance on nutrition alongside exercises designed to improve reflexes and balance. To further the event’s commitment to accessibility, a dedicated handisport area provides attendees with hands-on exposure to adaptive sports.
Participation is free, though teams must register through the City of Lyon’s official portal to reserve a place. Competition continues on Sunday, November 15, with four two-hour sessions slated for 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. CET.
Registration remains open for the final Sunday slots, contingent on availability. Once registered, teams are responsible for managing their own time and selecting which workshops to tackle to build their total score.
