How to Master (and Get a Good Workout from) Axe Throwing
Depending on who you ask, axe throwing is either exciting or intimidating. After all, you are throwing an axe full speed at a standing target. For those who lean on the intimidated side of axe throwing, know there’s more that goes into the popular sport than simply throwing an axe.
Over 20 years ago Wetherbee took first place in the World’s Open Lumberjill Contest in Boonville, New York in the axe throw. Since then, she’s won or placed highly in countless axe-throwing competitions throughout North America and has gone on to teach thousands of people—including Queen Latifah and Harry Connick—how to throw an axe.
“In our sport, we are throwing full-size, competition throwing axes, [which are different from] the hatchets you see throwh in bars and on television,” she says.
And with that, Wetherbee throws her top tips to give you the sharpest (and safest) axe-throwing experience.
“I think it would be impossible to nail down the first-ever axe-throwing competition,” says Wetherbee as many stories over time have talked about the origin of axe throwing.
From tales of the logging camps throughout the North American forests hosting chopping, sawing, log rolling, and axe throwing competitions between the lumberjacks to see who was the strongest and fastest in the camp, to frontiersman (and women), as well as Vikings holding competitions.
Whatever the origin, the axe is a tool that has been used throughout history all over the world. And now, you get the chance to pick up an axe and continue in the history of this historic sport—not to mention, have lots of fun!
Keep in mind, “Practice makes perfect and muscle memory is key to axe throwing,” says Wetherbee.
There are other acceptable ways to throw an axe. Once you start practicing, you’ll find what technique works best for you.
If you’re looking to practice in your backyard with a full-sized axe (not a hatchet), you’ll need to build the target stand on your own.
Keep in mind, building your own target stand or having someone build the unit for you is much cheaper.
Wetherbee explains the target needs to be heavy, as you don’t want the force of the axe hitting it, to knock it over. (Which a full-sized axe could certainly do).
“A tripod style stand works best, with two legs on the front, slightly leaning back on one leg.” Recommends Wetherbee.
They are handmade, and they can customize your axe to exactly what you’re looking for. Wetherbee prefers a slightly heavier throwing axe, for example, so that the wind is not as much of an issue when she’s throwing outdoors.
For a lighter stand purchased online, always go with a hatchet.
With the sport of Axe throwing must come some pretty tight safety tips. Wetherbee shares the most important tips to keep your game fun and injury-free.
With a strong target stand and safety rules followed axe throwing can become a fantastic hobby that offers strength training for the brain and upper body!
