Over the past few years, axe throwing has gained immense popularity. From only a traditional lumberjack skill to a recreational activity, it has come a long way. People have started recognizing its importance as a therapeutic and calming activity to channel their frustration.
It also has a challenging edge that gives you a rush of adrenaline while helping you improve your focus. Are you new to axe throwing?
Here’s our handy guide on axe-throwing tips for beginners. Let’s throw like a pro!
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, practice your axe-throwing techniques at Axe Throw San Diego. Our Medieval-themed venues offer a unique experience, bringing together families, friends, and colleagues.
Refresh yourself at Axe Throw San Diego with this thrilling and challenging sport.
Axe Throwing for Beginners
Axe throwing is a recreational activity that has gained popularity over the last few years. The hand-eye coordination technique teaches you to throw an axe at a target (usually called the bullseye).
In present times, various indoor axe-throwing venues, like Axe Throw San Diego, offer this competitive sport in a safe and controlled space. These venues offer a unique experience with themed rooms and secured lanes for large groups of people. Want to play axe-throwing with friends?
Just book yourself a reservation. You don’t need safety equipment, a different number of axes for everyone, and, most importantly, a target! Your axe-throwing venue will have all of that. Plus, a throwing coach will guide you and ensure everyone’s safety throughout your experience.
However, whether you’re throwing axes at an indoor venue or taking axe throwing home, you need our list of essential axe-throwing tips for beginners.
Basic Axe Throwing Tips for Beginners
When learning to master a sport like axe throwing, the essential details count, like the size of your axe, your stance, and learning when to throw. You need to start with these axe-throwing rules for beginners.
So, without further ado, let’s get into these axe-throwing tips for beginners. And by the end of it, you will be confident enough to have your first smooth throw.
Pick the Right Axe
When learning to throw an axe for the first time, pick the right axe for yourself. Many options could be available at the venue, but you must choose one that fits your skill level, body weight, and height. Most importantly, what is your throwing coach recommending?
A beginner-friendly axe usually weighs between 1.5 and 2 pounds and has a handle length of 14 to 19 inches. So, pick something from these options and see which one is the right fit for you.
Wear Proper Attire
This one might come off as trivial, but if you miss out on this, there’s a high chance you not only have a failed throw but can also put yourself in danger. That’s why one of the essential tips for axe-throwing beginners is to wear the proper attire.
You must come fully clothed, with no dangling jewelry or scarves. Also, wear closed-toe shoes—it’s best if there are no heels.
Master the Correct Stance and the Grip
Now comes the best part. How you’re holding your axe and maintaining a posture makes a lot of difference in axe throwing for beginners. You must not have your axe tightly. Instead, the grip should be firm and relaxed. It’s a thing you learn with practice.
And then, make sure you’re positioning yourself for stability. You should stand with your legs shoulder-width apart and your dominant foot slightly ahead of the other. Plus, make sure you’re standing right in front of the target.
Practice Your Throw
Did you know throwing an axe isn’t about force? Instead, you need to use controlled strength and proper technique, so you need to practice your throw. Understanding axe-throwing rules for beginners will help you learn where to stand and how to grip your axe. Then, initiate the throw with relaxed muscles.
Avoid any jerky movements, and keep your eyes on the target. Plus, as a first-timer, aim to rotate your axe one time only during the flight. You can adjust your distance and strength accordingly for it.
Know When to Release
This one’s really important among our list of axe-throwing tips for beginners. It defines that you know what you’re doing. So when you’re throwing your axe, let’s say with the two-hand or one-hand technique, make a smooth arc while bringing your axe from the back to the front and let go when your arm is level with the ground.
Not any higher or lower, just parallel. And make sure you’re letting it roll off your fingertips naturally. This increases its chances of hitting and sticking to the target.
Maintain a Consistent Follow Through
It’s another basic axe throwing for beginners. After releasing the axe, you should let your arm and hand complete their arc. It is necessary for a smooth and consistent throw and for your body to maintain balance.
Avoid stopping your motion in the middle, as this can impact your axe’s rotation and accuracy. And if you keep practicing your follow-through, you’ll develop a muscle memory for perfect throws.
Focus on Your Target
Target focus and aiming for the bullseye are the two most important tips for axe-throwing beginners. Throwing your axe and focusing on the target helps you consistently hit the bullseye.
The key is to take a moment before hitting the target and aim for the bullseye. By having confidence in yourself and narrowing your target, you will improve quickly.
Experiment with Distance
As a beginner, you should start with a distance of 12 to 15 feet away from the target. Then, experiment with distances to become a well-rounded axe thrower.
When increasing the distance, you can improve your throwing force so your axe can hit the bullseye. But keep in mind that you have to keep a balance between strength and control. Moreover, you can also change your release point to adjust the rotation of your axe when throwing from a distance.
Follow Range Rules and Etiquette
For a smooth and enjoyable experience, beginners must follow axe-throwing rules. For instance, you must listen to the staff, follow specific guidelines, respect other participants, and never cross into the throwers’ lanes.
You must not put yourself and your friends in danger by ensuring you’re not throwing until the range is clear. Plus, be mindful of the noise level and wait for your turn.
Prioritize Your Safety
A very important axe-throwing tip for beginners is to be safe. You must follow the safety guidelines and wear personal protective equipment, like safety glasses. Always ensure no one is in the target area while throwing and you’re in your designated line.
Listen to the staff and handle your axe with care. Or you might injure yourself.
FAQs
What should I bring for axe throwing as a first-timer?
Axe throwing for beginners is quite simple. Just bring yourself and your positive attitude. We’ll provide you with everything else needed, including the axe throwing tips for beginners.
How do you get better at axe throwing?
Keep trying with purposeful drills and practice your throw even without an axe (just with your arm and hand) to develop muscle memory.
Conclusion
Throwing an axe for beginners may seem difficult at first, but with practice and our list of axe-throwing tips for beginners, it gets easier. Looking to put all these tips into action?
Practice your throw at Axe Throw San Diego. Our throwing coaches will familiarize you with some essential axe throwing for beginners’ techniques and safety rules, and then, you’re off to throw for fun, skill, and friendly competition.
Book your online reservations now! Or reserve a spot at our Dragon Dagger Academy for axe-throwing classes in San Diego. We’ll teach you how to throw an axe, a knife, and a tomahawk!