jooks

Jooks is a traditional Estonian athletic game similar to the sport of tag or chase, often played outdoors by children and adults alike. The game typically involves one or more players designated as "jooks" (chaser), whose objective is to tag or catch other players within a designated area. Once caught, the players may become "jooks" themselves, creating a continuous cycle of chase and evasion.

Historically, jooks has been a popular street game in Estonia, played informally among groups of children during the summer months. The game emphasizes agility, speed, and strategy, as players attempt to avoid being tagged while the jooks tries to catch them. Variations of the game can include multiple runners, safe zones, or specific rules governing the chase.

The term "jooks" is derived from the Estonian verb "jooksma," meaning "to run," reflecting the game's core activity of running and quick movements. In modern times, jooks is often played in informal settings, such as playgrounds and parks, preserving its cultural significance as a traditional Estonian pastime.

Despite its simplicity, jooks remains a popular and enduring game, often serving as a physical activity that promotes fitness and social interaction among participants. It also exemplifies Estonia's rich tradition of outdoor and community-based games that have been passed down through generations.