Weirdly wonderful: 7 odd Finnish sports to try

Get ready to dive into the peculiar world of Finnish sports! Beyond their love for ice hockey and skiing, Finns have a knack for creating eccentric games that are as entertaining as they are unique. Here are seven weirdly wonderful Finnish sports that you absolutely must try. Let's get started

1. Wife Carrying: A Sport for the Brave (and Strong)

Have you ever wanted to prove your strength and endurance while also showing your love for your significant other? Look no further than wife carrying, a sport that originated in Finland. The objective is simple: carry your wife through a challenging obstacle course in the fastest time possible. It's a true test of physical fitness and teamwork, and it's definitely not for the faint of heart (or weak of arms).

2. Mobile Phone Throwing: Letting Go of Your Frustrations

Feeling frustrated with your mobile phone? Well, in Finland, they have a unique way of dealing with that frustration. They organise mobile phone throwing competitions! Participants compete to see who can throw their phone the farthest. It's a great way to release stress and let go of your technological woes. Just make sure to have a spare phone handy!

3. Swamp Football: Getting Down and Dirty

If you're tired of playing footie on neatly manicured grass fields, why not try swamp football? This sport takes place in muddy swamps, adding an extra layer of challenge and hilarity to the game. It's a great way to bond with your friends and get a good workout while getting covered in mud from head to toe. Just be prepared to do some serious laundry afterwards!

4. Hobbyhorse Racing: Galloping with Style

Have you ever dreamed of being an equestrian, but don't have access to a real horse? Well, in Finland, they have a solution for that. Hobbyhorse racing is a sport where participants ride toy horses and compete in various events, including show jumping and dressage. It's a quirky and creative way to fulfill your horseback riding dreams without the need for an actual horse.

5. Air Guitar: Rocking Out Without an Instrument

Do you have a passion for rock music but lack the musical talent to play an instrument? Fear not, because in Finland, they have a sport just for you. Air guitar competitions allow participants to showcase their best air guitar skills and rock out on an imaginary stage. It's a fun and lighthearted way to embrace your inner rock star.

6. Mosquito Swatting: A Battle Against the Tiny Bloodsuckers

Finland is known for its abundance of mosquitoes, so it's no surprise that they have turned mosquito swatting into a sport. Participants compete to see who can swat the most mosquitoes in a given time period. It's a unique way to combat the pesky bloodsuckers and show off your quick reflexes. Just don't forget to wear mosquito repellent!

7. Berry Picking: A Sport for Nature Lovers

While berry picking may not sound like a sport, in Finland, it's taken very seriously. Participants compete to see who can pick the most berries in a given time period. It's a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the bountiful Finnish forests. Plus, you get to enjoy delicious berries as a reward for your hard work!

So, if you're looking for some quirky and unusual sports to try, Finland is the place to be. From wife carrying to mobile phone throwing, there's something for everyone. Just remember to bring your sense of humour and adventure!