Rainy Day? Try These Four Indoor Athletic Activities

With spring comes lots of rainy days. In Columbus, the spring weather never seems to stay dry and warm. When your night or weekend outside gets spoiled with a thunderstorm, how are you going to stay active?

If you’re feeling restless but the rain won’t stop, we’ve made the perfect list of activities that turn dark days into fun! Call some friends and get moving with our four favorite indoor athletic activities.

Columbus Gets Indoor Fun

In Ohio, there’s plenty of ways to stay active when the weather goes bad. It happens so often, we’ve learned to be prepared! Whether you’re alone or with friends, these activities can make your stormy day come alive.

Bowling

When the rain comes out, it might be time to hit the lanes! Bowling keeps you active no matter your athletic level. As a form of exercise, the sport can help lower your risk of stroke and heart attack, as well as improve inner circulation. The walking and throwing of bowling keeps your muscles limber without straining them, bringing you the stress relief of physical activity with a lot less blood, sweat, and tears.

Along with the health benefits, bowling keeps everyone involved because there’s no real minimum or maximum group size. Family in town? Grab a few lanes and split up between them. Get competitive with your score or just try to stay out of the gutter; the game can be as casual as you want it. Don’t overlook how fun a game of rainy day bowling can be!

At Home Indoor Soccer

Feel like staying at home? Mini indoor soccer is a great way to get moving in a small space. In a room-sized game, the miles of running and heavy physical contact of soccer go away for an activity anyone can jump into. The movement and mental creativity of soccer is great physical exercise and can help keep your metabolism up, burning calories in the process.

All it takes is a little space, a small ball that’s easy to kick around, and a goal! If you don’t have official goals, use two objects to mark out a goal line, or run to a sporting goods store to grab mini indoor goals; most sporting goods stores make goals perfect for an in-home match. It’s easy to get moving at home; grab a ball and play a little indoor soccer!

Ice Skating

When you’re dying to get outside but a storm keeps you in, ice skating makes you feel free! Going to a local rink with friends is excellent exercise and leaves plenty of time to hang out on the ice. Almost every single muscle group in your body is used while you ice skate, from your legs and core to keep balance to your hands when you inevitably fall. Everyone falls, right? Compared to most indoor activities, ice skating is affordable, and chances are there is a rec center near you with a discounted public skate night. Maybe it’s time to strap on some skates and hit the ice!

Axe Throwing

Have you ever thought about axe throwing as exercise? The fun and physical activity of hitting that target go hand in hand. Most of your arm muscles and core get used to throw the axe, in addition to your legs helping you keep balance as you move.

The best part is, you won’t even notice the calories burning; the fun of it keeps your mind off the physical demands. You and your friends can reserve a lane and make it an event! Both locations are outside-food friendly, so dinner and a game can all happen in the same place.

A New Way To Work Out

It feels daunting to find a way to stay active and have fun when spring weather kills your outdoor plans. We hope these ideas give you new inspiration to think outside the box about getting exercise on a rainy day.

If the forecast calls for rain, reserve your axe throwing lane ahead of time and make your indoor workout a little more fun!

Bar Crawl Alternatives In Downtown Columbus

The bar crawl, a time-honored tradition of wild nights and unforgettable memories, has been a staple of good times across the country. 

But, has the thrill begun to wane? Are you and your crew in search of a new adventure, a fresh scene to explore?

If your friend group has exhausted all their ideas, fear not! We’ve got the ultimate list of bar crawl alternatives that will revamp your Friday night plans. Whether you’re in the mood for a boozy bash or a sophisticated craft beer experience, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to swap out the mundane for the extraordinary – all while enjoying good company and great drinks. Our handpicked list will make sure you don’t miss out on any of the fun. 

So, gear up for your next hangout with one of these thrilling bar crawl alternatives in Columbus, Ohio!

A New Way To Drink And Be Merry

Of course, a true bar crawl alternative has to involve drinks right? Hang with friends and stay a little boozy with our suggestions.

Columbus Brewery Tour

Any bar crawl contestant must experience the many breweries Cap City has to offer! In addition to learning about the brewing process and the history of beer production, you’ll sample some of the greatest local brews. Brewery tours frequently take you behind the scenes and demonstrate the materials and tools used in each special craft brew.

Whether you appreciate the craft of making beer or not, at least there are plenty of tastings and hang times involved! Check out Wolf’s Ridge brewery tour and Brewdog’s massive regional headquarters in Canal Winchester.

Cocktail Competition

Starting a cocktail competition with your friends makes for a great evening – if you do it right. Invite your friends over for a night where every attendee makes a cocktail for the judging of the guests. This is the moment to showcase your mixology skills and creativity, all while sampling your friends’ favorite creations!

Participating in a cocktail competition is an excellent way to learn new recipes, techniques, and tips from one another. It also adds a dash of excitement to your gathering and makes for a friendly competition. Did we mention, you don’t have to be an experienced bartender to take part? With some practice and creativity, anyone can concoct a delicious drink! Don’t have a favorite? Check out the best of our Dueling Axes cocktail menu for inspiration here!

Pedal Wagon

Embark on a unique adventure through Columbus by hopping on a pedal wagon with your friends! This oversized wagon, equipped with a keg of beer, offers a fun and active way to explore the city. Whether you decide to dress it up or keep it casual, pedaling around town is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city while getting some exercise. Most wagons even let you bring your own music, and with various stops along the route and a refreshing beverage in hand, unforgettable moments with your friends are guaranteed. Visit the Pedal Wagon Columbus website to learn more!

Time To Kick Axe!

You know where else you could be throwing back drinks with friends, all while trying your best in a friendly game? A lane at Dueling Axes! At our Downtown Columbus location, bring your own food and drink for your session or try the full service bar at our New Albany location! There’s nothing like trying a new beer with your friends while you try to beat each other’s score on the target. Reserve your axe throwing lane here. 

Next Friday night or Saturday afternoon, break from the norm and try one of these alternatives!

3 Of The Best Stress Relieving Activities In Columbus

Some days the struggle is just too real. A bad day at work, an argument with a friend or something little like a bad hair day can make the whole week feel like an endless grind.

We’re here to say: there’s many healthy ways to relieve your daily stress!

If cutting caffeine hasn’t fixed it yet, maybe a more unconventional method would help. Around Columbus, there’s many spaces dedicated to bringing some relaxation back to your life, or just a way to get the frustration out of you! Check out our list of go-to stress relievers a little more healthy than binge watching.

Healthy Ways To Decompress

Of course, winding down from a busy week or month looks different for everyone. Regardless of your personal preference, we’ve got options for however you need to let it out. Does a peaceful night do the trick, or a more physical activity? Maybe you’re not sure what calms you down the best. Try something new from the list and let us know if it helped!

Take A Walk In A Garden

Take a little green time to decompress! Spending quality time in a park or garden has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, and there are plenty of beautiful parks around Columbus! Find a park close to your home, or try two of our favorites: Topiary Park and Franklin Park Conservatory. 

Topiary Park’s design perfectly recreates a famous George Seurat painting with bushes, trees, and water cut to form people, boats, and even dogs! The conservatory includes a lovely greenhouse of plants and landscaped rooms, with plenty of walking trails surrounding the buildings. Grab your admission at the park website.

Visit A Float Spa

Get free from gravity and your stresses with a float therapy session! In a float spa, you’ll slide into a tub of water and dissolved salt that allows you to float with no effort. Every muscle in your body is free to relax, bringing pain relief and improved blood circulation. With the quiet and calming atmosphere, you’ll have improved focus and mental clarity that gives your brain a break from the rush of life. Downtown, you can book a session at Ebb & Float, or sign up for a monthly membership, good for a one hour float session each month.

Let It All Out In An Axe Throw!

Feeling a little wound up? Release the stress with some axe throws! There’s nothing like working out that work conflict or relationship trouble with some hard throws at a wooden target. Just make sure you’re staying safe while you’re doing it; no collateral damage please! Come down to our downtown location or our New Albany spot with your troubles and leave them behind on the lanes. You can even make this a weekly event with our axe throwing leagues to keep the blues away proactively.

Reserve your spot today for yourself, or bring a few friends and make it group therapy!

Indoor Things To Do For The Next Chilly Day

Winter months in Columbus, Ohio never seem to end. As the nights come early and the winds stay sharp, fighting off the cabin fever gets harder and harder. When the evening or weekend rolls around, what’s new and interesting to do? Whether you wanna stay in or go out, we’ve collected our favorite indoor activities when the restlessness hits and it’s too cold to be outdoors.

Ideas For Any Energy Level

After a stressful day at work, are you looking for something relaxing but new to do at home? Is it Friday, and you’re ready for the party to start? Either way, our indoor activities list can match your energy and keep the winter blues off.

Indoor Mini Golf

With its vibrant colors, whimsical obstacles, and challenging holes, mini golf is a great way to challenge yourself and have a good time out of the cold in Columbus. You don’t have to worry about rain, snow, or wind interfering with your game. You don’t even need to be a golf expert, or keep score at all; walking the course and hanging with your friends is the fun part!

Wine Tasting

Stay warm in style with a wine tasting! You can take the excellent opportunity to dress up, relax, and indulge in a few fine wines at your local winery. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, wine tasting is a great way to learn about the different varieties of wine, their flavors, and their origins.

You’ll have the opportunity to sample a range of wines and discover new favorites, all while enjoying the comfort and warmth of the indoors. The atmosphere is always subdued, which makes for a great wind down to the day. So why not treat yourself?  Discover the rich and complex flavors that the world of wine has to offer. Check out our New Albany axe throwing lounge for wine specials every Wednesday! In addition to half off bottles, you can sip your favorite blend for just $4/glass. The best part? You don’t need to throw axes to take advantage of Wine Wednesday!

Book Swap

All book swaps start with a great indoor activity: shopping! During a book swap, you and someone else visit a bookstore and pick a book for the other. Then, go back to your favorite cozy living room and enjoy reading what you’re given. On a dark, cold day, a book and a friend make for a quiet, quaint night. Try reading for a certain time and then share your thoughts over a hot drink!

Throw Some Axes!

We’ve got the perfect blend of fun and indoors at our locations! Jump in, throw some axes, make memories with your friends, and spend the next chilly day having fun on the lanes! If you’re up for a good time, reserve a lane and stay warm through the winter! Our staff is trained on just about every axe throwing game imaginable to help you create a custom experience you’ll always treasure.

Enjoy The Great Indoors Throughout Columbus

There’s a reason our city is Ohio’s capital! With so much to do this time of year, you can easily find indoor things to do the whole family will love! Treat the kids to a round of mini golf or hang out with old friends and taste some fine wine. Book swaps are low maintenance ways to keep your social meter full without overdoing it and as always, axe throwing can provide the ultimate indoor excursion for any age and any occasion! Book your reservation at either of our Central Ohio locations today.

Valentine’s Day Dates You’ll Thank Us For

Here it comes, that day of love, romance, and the same-old same-old dinner and movie. Why not switch it up this year? Your date’s getting bored of all the usual spots; it’s time to try axe throwing on Valentine’s Day!

Think about it: you’re taking on some friendly competition against your sweetheart as you order your favorite romantic dinner for delivery to your location. Whether it’s a brand new experience or an old hangout, the memories are sure to last. Who knows? Maybe a night throwing axes is the perfect way to wind down and show your casual side!

Axe Throwing With Your Sweetheart

No need to worry about a long wait time or no availability on Valentine’s Day. Reserve your throwing lane ahead of time on our website. Are you grabbing dinner before or making Dueling Axes your main event? Choose between a one or two hour time slot to fit your plans.

If this is a departure from your normal dates, don’t worry. Every session begins with safety steps and a quick tutorial on how to throw an axe. Don’t feel intimidated; we’re happy to help you hit that target! Get a head start on the training with the step by step tutorial on our website and a quick video for visual reference.

Two Locations, Two Vibes

Each location sets its own mood for Valentines Day, and it all depends on how you like to drink. Want to bring your favorite party drinks from home? Our Downtown Columbus is BYOB (beer and wine only, please) and open to outside food as well. If your Valentine’s Day isn’t complete without a nice cocktail, our New Albany location keeps a full bar, with a new specialty drink each month. This location is also open to outside food, so make the night your own; cheap pizza or Cameron Mitchell entrees are welcome!

With a creative date night like axe throwing on Valentine’s Day, why not make the meal special too? Get your first date dinner delivered, or try a new cuisine (any Greek food lovers?). Whatever vibe you’re aiming for, axe throwing can bring the fun you’re looking for.

Dress To Impress, And Throw Axes.

Maybe you’re the kind of couple that loves to show off the backwoods side of yourselves, but for everyone else, don’t be afraid to keep the outfit fancy! Make the night your own; the date will be even more special if you’re rocking your favorite look on the throwing lanes. Just make sure you have enough arm movement in your fit to beat your partner, and be sure to wear closed-toe shoes!

Reserve Your Valentine’s Day Plans!

Now that you have some ideas to plan a great Valentine’s Day date, reserve your lane and make it happen! Dinner, drinks, and a fun, bonding activity all come together when you go axe throwing! Choose your location on the reservation page and start planning your meal delivery choices based on what’s in the location’s area. Once dinner plans are set, you’re set for a fun and romantic Valentine’s Day! Get started with a reservation here.

Axe Throwing Tips For Beginners

Got your first axe throwing night coming up on the calendar? Or maybe you’ve thrown before, but the results haven’t been too sharp? Let’s turn your beginner’s curse into some beginner’s luck! Keep scrolling for our favorite axe throwing tips that beginners and vets alike can incorporate into their next game.

The Basics

Let’s start with the classic, technical explanation for an axe throw. There’s only three steps:

• Step 1: With your dominant hand on top, grip the base of the axe handle firmly with both hands. Don’t squeeze.
• Step 2: Making sure the blade of the axe is pointing towards the target, raise the axe over and behind your head, gently rocking back on your dominant foot.
• Step 3: Step forward with your non-dominant foot while bringing your arms forward in a throwing motion. Then, with your arms extended forward, release the axe towards the target keeping your wrists in line with your forearms.

Out of all the directions, these three steps are the foundation that either makes or breaks your throw quality. Your best friend, uncle, or the noisy guy next to you might have tried to show you their way of throwing, but this is the way real professionals throw an axe. 

Axe Throwing Tips And Tricks For All Skill Levels

If you follow the steps mentioned above and keep missing the mark, we’ve got some advice to help improve your axe throwing quality. 

Tactic Surpasses Strength

With a weighty axe in hand and a thick wood target in front of you, it’s tempting to clench the handle tight and channel your most muscular self, pouring all your strength into the throw.

But you don’t need to be that guy (or gal).

The truth is, the axe doesn’t need strength to stick; the metal head will build up speed as it whips through the air. All that’s needed is a smooth throw. Think about it like a ball on a string, or the Olympic hammer throw: less about muscle, more about momentum. 

It’s All In The Flips

Maybe your throw has the right umph and flies smoothly from your hand, but still bounces off backwards or upside down.

To this we say, start thinking about flips.

When you let go the axe will start to flip end over end until it hits something. Keep in mind, you’re aiming for a single flip here. Underflips or overflips end with the top of the axe head, or the bottom of the axe handle, making contact with the target. That’s when your axe fails to make blade contact and bounces off the target dropping to the floor.

If this seems to be the problem, watch your throw carefully to see if you’re under- or overflipping: underflips usually hit the target with the handle pointing away from you (bottom of the handle hitting the target), overflips have handles pointing toward you (top of the axe head hitting the target).

The correction for both of these scenarios is simple – it’s distance. All you need to do is adjust your distance from the target and the moment you let go to adjust your flip speed. If you are underflipping, the axe needs more time to make the full rotation, so take a step back (away from the target). If you are overflipping, the axe needs less time to rotate, so take a step forward (towards the target). The closer to one exact flip, the more chance your axe will stick! A perfect axe throw is when the axe is sticking in the target at a 45 degree angle. Want to see these tips in action? Check out our How to fix your axe throw video and become a pro in no time.

Need Extra Practice?

The best way to learn is by practice! Brush up on your axe throwing skills by learning a few tricks in person during your next reservation at either of our Central Ohio axe throwing lounges. Our staff takes time training you and your crew on the correct, safe way to throw an axe. We’ll also provide you with a few different games to try so you get the full experience! Get answers to basic questions about what to expect, reservations, and more on our FAQ page or ask us directly when you make your reservation online!