Taking the USA by storm, the sport of axe throwing comes to Exeter! It's a bit like a game of darts, but you'll be throwing axes rather than arrows. This centre just outside Ottery Saint Mary has everything you need to get started.
Chucking an axe and making it ‘stick' (that is actually the term used by competitive axe throwers) is very therapeutic. Cathartic even. There's something undeniably cool about watching as your axe spins and lands with a thud. Let's see if you can get the hang of it.
Despite what you might think, successfully landing axes is more about technique than sheer muscle power. How you hold the axe is essential. It's a two-handed hold, a bit like a cricket bat and depends on whether you're right or left-handed.
Now you've got the axe in your hand in front of you, bend those knees, step forward, bring the axe up over your head, bring it down in a ‘chop' movement and when it's level with your eyes, it's the moment to release it.
With any luck, your trusty Tomahawk will do one full, stylish, rotation and land cleanly into the great hunks of wood that are your targets. It might take you a few goes and a bit of adjusting your body stance, but you will get the hang of it. Once you're consistent with your technique, you can start adding some more power to your throw.
If you want to add some extra elements to your axe throwing session in Exeter, go for the knife and angel option. This gives you three very different things to chuck. Remember the mantra: step, lift, chop, throw and stick and you'll get those blades in those targets!
