This summer, Rainier CrossFit in Washington state hosted the Lumberjack Challenge. With events like single bucking, double bucking, standing block chop, choker setting and axe throwing, this challenge brought classic lumberjack skills to CrossFitters.
Says Rainer CrossFit owner Kurtis Bowler: “It’s really fun, and it’s hard too.”
In today’s video, Bowler teaches the correct technique for chopping a block of wood.
When using sharp objects like an axe, safety comes first.
“These are really sharp, and they weigh about 5 lb., so they will take pieces of you with them if you’re not careful with it,” he says.
And don’t drop the axe on the ground because they are a pain to sharpen, he says.
Bowler goes on to critique Matt Chan’s form from a previous CrossFit.com video: Standing Block Chop With Kurtis Bowler, Matt Chan and Rory McKernan.
Bowler demonstrates proper technique and makes short work of a log with precise, controlled swings.
6min 8sec
Video by Again Faster.
Additional reading: CrossFit North’s Annual Championship by Tyler Hass, published Nov. 1, 2004.