Bristolians, it’s a great time of year to brush off the cobwebs and try a new physical activity. If it's a fun one-off trial then no problem! However, you might find that one of these activities has the power to become a regular affair… Let’s find your next Bristol-based sports obsession!
1) Throw some Axes at Whistle Punks
Whistle Punks is the self-professed ‘home of urban axe throwing’ with a presence in Bristol, London, Manchester and Leeds. Despite what it may seem, axe throwing in 70-minute sessions is entirely safe as long as you take the instructions seriously. It's absolutely a fun group activity that welcomes first-comers with open (axe-less) arms. So what goes great with all this throwing? Pizza, craft beers and cocktails of course!
Where? All Saints’ St, BS1 2LZ.
2) Go on an Stand up Paddle-boarding (SUP) Adventure
In case you've been living under some seaweed, stand up paddleboarding (SUP for short) has been growing massively in popularity over the last few years. Taught by SUP Bristol, their reasonably priced 1.5-hour-long Taster Sessions are an excellent way to grasp the basics of the sport, as well as explore a nice chunk of Bristol Harbourside. An excellent exercise for the whole body, SUP works your balance and core, as well as your entire upper body. Fun and practical!
Where? Underfall Yard, Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6XG.
3) Place some darts at Flight Club Bristol
Located on Corn Street, Flight Club is a go-to for those that like to combine the precise art of throwing darts with the social aspects of having a couple of drinks at a bar. What do they call it? 'Social Darts' of course! The interior of Flight Club venues is quite something with bold eclectic British art deco vibes that complement this reinvention of our pointiest of sports. Make sure to order a sharing board for the group!
Where? 41 Corn Street, Bristol, BS1 1HT.
4) Get your bounce on at Freedog Bristol
Remember that shabby sun and mud-stained trampoline that you went on once as a kid? Freedog Bristol is nothing like that. What was once a large hangar is now home to a huge open area that is filled with connected trampolines that will have you and your friends bouncing all over the place - it's great fun! Once your legs are fried (and trust me, they will be) you can try the 'Go Ape' style courses that involve swinging, balancing, grabbing, and climbing your way around obstacles to get to the finish. You're going to need that pizza at the cafe afterwards!
Where? 2A-C, Templegate Park, Mead St, Bristol BS3 4RP.
5) Harness up for a Climb at Redpoint
A great option for those keen to explore their limits (beginner to advanced) when it comes to heights, Redpoint Bristol is one of Bristol's premiere climbing walls. Stop by the cafe for an espresso before climbing and then join a pre-booked Taster Session that will get you safely onto the wall with some 'top roping' so that you work on your technique. Hint: try not to pull with your arms too much!
Where? 40 Winterstoke Road, Bristol, BS32NW.