We all have our own ideas of what the perfect workout may be. Whether it’s running ten miles, swimming laps, lifting weights or yoga, different things work for different bodies. I get it, but let me preach. Axe (or hatchet) throwing is going to be your new workout obsession.
Let’s break it down
Chucking Viking-like weapons at oversized targets is exactly what you need to get out anger, relive stress or just get your blood pumping in general. It just gets the job done. Trust me.
From the motion of swinging your arms and releasing the blade to the bending and squatting of retrieving it, the notion that this unconventional activity is a workout is the last thing crossing your mind. The best thing about it? It doesn’t feel like a work out until the next morning.
The time speeds by and you’re too wrapped up in getting another (or one) bullseye before time is up. Want to be challenged more? Keep score and see who can land it and get it centered the most amount of times.
Don’t be fooled – it’s harder than it looks
While some people are naturals, I was not. After a one-hour session, I could count the number of times my hatchet lodged into the target on two hands. Although my aim was spot on, being sure to not over-rotate or throw too hard are both techniques that have to be mastered.
Luckily for you, time slots are either one-hour long for you and a partner or two-hours long for groups. You’ll be able to dominate it by then—all the Vikings (and lumberjacks) have faith in you.
Above all, each time you get a bullseye, there's a bell to ring that echos throughout the warehouse and upon hearing that sound, all must then revel in your glory.
The Pros:
1. Get your adrenaline pumping by throwing axes (check)
2. Leg day (check)
3. Arm day (check)
4. Back day (check)
5. Increased hand-eye coordination (maybe)
6. New experience (check)
7. Intimidation factor increases by ten times (Duh, yes)
8. Bending and squatting hundreds of times to do it all over again (check)
The Cons:
1. When you think of any, let me know
Partaking in the weaponry shenanigans
There are places that are slowly popping up around the country. If you’re in the Tri-State area (PA, NJ, NY), you can try Urban Axes in Philadelphia, PA or Stumpy’s Hatchet House in Eatontown, NJ. I would recommend making a reservation in advance, especially for larger groups.
In addition, if you’re feeling shy and need to take the edge off a bit/loosen up your muscles, both Urban Axes and Stumpy’s are BYO beer and wine (no hard liquor, sorry!).
Whether looking to get a good work out in, impressing a crush with an adventurous date idea or hanging out with friends, this needs to be your new go-to activity. Grab your favorite flannel shirt and have fun throwing axes, but don’t take anyone’s head off!