When you’re competing in the National Senior Games, it’s good to be Young.

 

Eric Young is a lead cable splicer and former lineman with Alabama Power in Mobile. Earlier this year, he was in Des Moines, Iowa, and instead of splicing cable, he was pumping iron.

 

Young brought home a gold medal in powerlifting from the National Senior Games in Des Moines. It’s one of several events he participated in. (He won bronze in cornhole).

 

Young, 61, took up tennis and cycling to stay active with his wife, Treba. That led to them participating in cycling events around the state, and they learned of a chance to participate in the National Senior Games.

 

When they attended the National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale in 2022, Eric and Treba discovered there were multiple competitions available. That got Eric thinking.

 

“I’m not really built for racing a bicycle. I ride and I go pretty fast, but some of these other guys, they’ve don’t it all of their lives,” Eric said. “I finally found something I could do, that I’ve done all of my life” in powerlifting.

 

After those first games, Eric and Treba found other sports and began training, preparing and qualifying for multiple events.

 

The Alabama Senior Olympics hosted qualifying events based on division and age groups. Most of those were held in Opelika, Auburn and Montgomery last year with cycling held in Mobile.

 

After qualifying at the state level, Eric and Treba made the 14-hour drive to Des Moines and spent two weeks there July 24-Aug. 4. Both of them competed in multiple events at the National Senior Games.

In track and field, Eric qualified for the 100-meter race, the shotput and the discus, though he didn’t participate in all of those at the national level. He did participate in powerlifting, where he won gold in his division, and cornhole, where he won bronze. He and Treba also participated in pickleball, tennis and cycling.

 

On top of that, he did a one-mile fun run.

 

At the Games, Eric had to do the squat, the deadlift and the bench press as part of the powerlifting competition. He did a combined 1,100 pounds, earning him the gold.

 

“When you lift at the gym, you’re just lifting,” Eric said. “But when you go to a competition, there are actual rules – you have to do this and do that and follow commands – and that was a little taxing on the body and difficult.”

 

The 200+ miles on the Singing River Trail will be a greenway trail of connection through the towns that make up the North Alabama region. Bonds between communities will be strengthened through the SRT by creating new opportunities for tourism, education and health and wellness. 

Alabama is in the bottom five states in the country in terms of the overall health of its residents. Even in the beginning stages of planning the greenway, the proposal would contribute to 8,174,000 minutes of new physical activity for citizens in North Alabama.

According to the SRT website, “the implementation of a well-designed, connected trail system would encourage a shift from inactive modes of transportation such as cars and trucks to active modes such as bicycling and walking that help promote active lifestyles” while also providing “free opportunity for recreation and exercise.”

Each of the eight counties on the Singing River Trail offer various unique opportunities for residents to get and remain healthy through their natural resources, sprawling parks and reserves, as well as state-of-the-art facilities located right in the heart of the communities that make up the trail. Here’s what the SRT has to offer in the way of health and wellness:

Jackson

Jackson County is home to many limestone caves, one of which is Stephen’s Gap in Scottsboro. The 150-foot cave features a stunning waterfall and is known for its spelunking, a popular and extreme form of cave exploration. The outdoor wonder is a true hidden gem in Jackson County.

Marshall

Outdoor activities abound on beautiful Lake Guntersville, a prominent part of Marshall County. From paddling, fishing, boating and even hiking at Lake Guntersville State Park, time spent in the vibrant small town is always memorable. For staying fit year round, visit Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater in neighboring Albertville. This winter season, the amphitheater debuted Sand Mountain Skate, the largest real outdoor ice skating rink in North Alabama.

Madison

The city of Huntsville is located in Madison County. With no shortage of things to do, experience, or see in the area, the opportunities to stay active are limitless. Led by the mayor, the city has been working on a Healthy Huntsville initiative and includes ways for citizens to get involved in a healthier lifestyle, which include 100 Miles Alabama Challenge, nutrition classes taught in partnership with Huntsville Hospital Wellness Centers, the Mayor’s Bike Ride, and Fitness in the Park.

Morgan

The town of Decatur in Morgan County is known as the “River City” and is located on both the Tennessee River and Wheeler Lake. It isn’t unusual to spend time in Decatur completely outdoors, canoeing, biking, hiking, or exploring Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is rich in recreational and wildlife opportunities, and visitors are completely immersed in nature while there.

Lawrence

For a culturally rich experience in Lawrence County, the Oakville Indian Mounds Park & Museum offer exhibits on the Cherokee, Choctaw, and Creek tribes, who were all native to the area. The Indian Mounds are shaded by the 180,000-acre Bankhead National Forest, which holds 18 trails that are wonderful for hiking, walking, and bird-watching.   

Limestone

Big Spring Memorial Park in downtown Athens is the perfect place to spend time outdoors, with plenty of areas for everyone in the family to run around, exercise, enjoy fresh air, and even feed the ducks at any time of year. The park, which is widely known as “The Duck Pond,” includes fountains, tennis courts, a large pavilion, and a playground. The annual Athens North Pole Stroll is in December, with decorated Christmas trees throughout the park.

Lauderdale

Bursting with traditional Southern charm, Florence in Lauderdale County offers something for everyone with its historic districts, world-class fishing, breathtaking natural scenery, and even the oldest four-year public university (UNA). There are several parks as well, including Diebert Park, McFarland Park, River Heritage Park and Pickwick Lake, all of which offer all types of family-friendly outdoor activities.

Colbert

Colbert County encompasses the Shoals area of North Alabama, offering everything from a legendary music scene to natural and historical wonders, like the birthplace of Helen Keller and the Natchez Trace. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals is a fantastic way to get in some exercise and recreation, as well as take in some terrific views of the natural topography along the Tennessee River. Also in Colbert County is Cane Creek Canyon Creek Nature Preserve in Tuscumbia is a 700-acre nature preserve with 18 miles of hiking trails and Lacefield Falls, which is part of the North Alabama Waterfall Trail. 

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

After the indulgence of the holiday season, you may never want to see another Christmas cookie or glass of eggnog again. And though you enjoyed your time off, you may even be tired of lounging on the couch.

If you’re hoping to get the new year started with a little extra pep in your step, a new workout routine might be the way to go. Instead of hitting up your usual treadmill at the gym, shake things up with a fun fitness class in 2023. Whether you want to pedal to the beat, take a swing at a punching bag, or get your adrenaline going on a rock wall, here are six fun workout trends to check out.    

Aerial Yoga

Warrior 2 certainly looks different from this angle. If you’ve gotten in a rut watching the same YouTube yoga videos or practicing the same poses over and over, take your practice airborne with aerial yoga. Aerial yoga combines traditional asana and yoga philosophies with the aerial arts, using silk fabrics and hammocks attached from above to help yogis more gently stretch their bodies and achieve poses. During a class, you may be fully suspended by your silks, or keep hands or feet anchored on the ground. Either way, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the year.  

Try it here:

Aero Joe Pilates (Birmingham)

Light on Yoga Fitness (Huntsville)

Core Reaction Pilates (Huntsville)

Rock Climbing

Flex some new muscles and get your heart pumping at a rock-climbing gym. While it’s too cold to tackle mountain faces, get the next best thing in one of the state’s many climbing and bouldering gyms. You’ll be so distracted figuring out new ways to solve the wall’s set problems and discovering new routes, that you’ll hardly realize how great a workout you’re getting out of the experience. As a bonus, many gyms have additional weights and fitness equipment so you can get your climb on and have access to more traditional workout options too. 

Try it here:

Birmingham Boulders (Birmingham)

High Point Climbing and Fitness (Birmingham)

High Point Climbing and Fitness (Huntsville)

Gadrock (Gadsden)

Cycling

A spin class may seem old hat when it comes to exercising, but you’ve probably never gone to a cycle class like one of these. You can expect fabulous light effects, the best playlists, and incredible sound systems to pump the jams. Ride to the beat, get your sweat on, and have a blast while doing it.

Try it here:

Ignite Cycle (Birmingham)

Three15 (Birmingham)

Zoom Indoor Cycling (Huntsville)

CycleBar (Huntsville)

One Ride Cycle (Muscle Shoals)

Bungee Fitness

Low-impact workouts used to consist of nothing more than water aerobics, but thanks to bungee fitness there’s a whole new way to get a workout with worrying about your knees aching after. Hook up to a harness and bungee cord for a low-impact workout that incorporates lunges, squats, jumping for cardio and strength training. 

So Fly Bungee Fitness (Ozark)

Fly By Bungee Fitness (Dothan)

Defying Gravity Bungee Training (Huntsville)

Boxing / Kickboxing

For a full-body workout that incorporates elements of several mixed martial arts styles, plus plenty of cardio, sign up for a boxing or kickboxing class. Get out some aggression with a combination of kicks, punches, elbows, and knees on a punching bag. While each class is a little different, some combining HIIT circuits and others focusing on fun music, the high points are the same. You get to kick, you get to punch, and you get a great workout. 

Try it here:

Battle Republic (Birmingham)

Gauntlet Fitness (Birmingham)

The Garage Fitness (Alabaster and Calera)

9Round Fitness (Tuscaloosa, Auburn, Mobile, Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores)

RockBox Fitness (Huntsville)

Dance Fitness

Let the music flow through your body and feel the beat at a dance fitness studio. You’ll probably never smile or sweat as much at one time, and your mood will skyrocket from the moment you hear the very first count of “5, 6, 7, 8”. Some studios even offer pole dancing classes for an added bit of flirty fun. 

Allegro (Muscle Shoals)

Her Moves Dance Fitness (Montgomery)

Moxie Krew Dance Fitness Studio (Dothan)

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

Last week, the City of Prattville held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open its new “fitness court.”

The court is a joint effort between the National Fitness Campaign (NFC) and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) to bring healthy lifestyle options to Alabama residents.

The NFC was established in 1979 and has a simple mission: Build a free outdoor fitness court within a 10-minute bike ride of every American. The goal of these outdoor gyms is to improve the health of individuals in the community.

To accomplish this, NFC partners with cities, schools and sponsors to build healthy communities, per its website. The Prattville facility opening is the next in a line of developments in which they hope to reach 10,000 communities by 2030.

Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. stated at the ceremony, “The Fitness Court will provide additional free public outdoor recreational opportunities to our citizens. This project creates fun and healthy activities for all ages, which are imperative to our thriving City.”

The fitness court allows users to download a free Fitness Court App to help guide exercises by leveraging their own body weight for a complete workout in seven stations. Created with adults of all ages in mind, the fitness court is adaptable for all fitness levels.

“We are honored to partner with the City of Prattville to bring our first Blue Cross sponsored Fitness Court to Alabama,” BCBS director of Corporate Communications and Community Relations for Alabama Sophie Martin said. “This innovative platform will help encourage their community to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.”

The court, located at 246 Doster Street, is the first in a series that BCBS will be sponsoring across Alabama in 2022.

For additional information about the park, visit the NFC website or the City of Prattville Facebook page.

Read more about the National Fitness Campaign here.

Regions Bank has announced the launch of Financial Fitness Fridays, a no-cost, high-impact program to help people across Alabama learn more about the power of building strong budgets and managing credit wisely.

Financial Fitness Fridays is built around free virtual seminars that are open to anyone, regardless of whether they have a Regions account. The main topics are credit and budgeting because they are so essential to helping people build and maintain financial security. From buying a home to making other major purchases or reaching any number of additional goals, good credit is essential. And it’s within reach. (more…)

New year, new you, right? Well, at least that’s what they say. You don’t need to do anything drastic, but if you’re looking to get back in a fitness routine after quarantine (most gyms have re-opened with COVID safety procedures in place), there are plenty of workout studios in Alabama ready to host you. From yoga on the beach to HIIT (high intensity interval training) boxing workouts to workouts with goats (yes, goats!), here are 12 unique workout studios in Alabama.

Combination Classes

(more…)

The power of consistency is real.

“Habit stacking” is a mantra we preach at Iron Tribe. Every time you do something good (like attend a workout or meal prep), you must do it again. And then another time. Until it’s engrained in your mind and routine. The more we practice our good habits, the easier they become!

This past year has certainly given us plenty of excuses to hit pause on our goals and slump back into old habits. If you need some motivation to get to the gym and kickstart your healthy habits, then check out this interview from one of Iron Tribe’s most dedicated gym couples, Jim and Betty Warren of Birmingham.

This fearless pair has made it a habit to show up at the gym and, more importantly, show up for themselves. They’ve hit the gym 19 weeks in a row and show no sign of slowing down. Read their story and see how simple habits can stack up to powerful results.

To learn more about Iron Tribe, visit irontribefitness.com

Like countless other businesses, Iron Tribe Fitness, a Birmingham-based gym, closed its doors in mid-March to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to its members and coaches. With five gyms in Birmingham and more than 30 others throughout the country, Iron Tribe Fitness Founder and CEO Forrest Walden said the decision to temporarily close was met with a mix of emotions. 

“This is something none of us saw coming,” Walden said. “Everything was changing by the hour, and we knew we had to put a plan in place fast to ensure our 1,200+ members in Birmingham continue to get the high-quality experience they’re used to and deserve.”

Thanks to the brand’s commitment to delivering a consistent experience to its current members, and launching a virtual membership option, Iron Tribe Fitness had not needed to lay off any of their coaches. In fact, Walden said, the gym has used this time to invest its dollars back into its gyms by doing a complete rebranding and renovation.  (more…)

Already dreading the inevitable holiday weight gain? Wondering how you’re going to get back in shape after weeks of Christmas parties and sugary desserts? If this sounds familiar, Iron Tribe Fitness has the perfect solution for you: the 2019 6 Week Challenge.

Beginning January 14 and ending February 25, Iron Tribe’s 6 Week Challenge is a highly regarded fitness program that combines group workouts with personalized coaching and nutrition guidance.

Challenge participants will have access to three cutting-edge workouts a week at an Iron Tribe gym, a personal accountability coach, world-class online support and a custom meal plan that includes a grocery list, individualized food-prep instructions, and 42 recipes. (more…)

By Thomas Cox

I have tried to cook brisket numerous times and have screwed it up most of them.

Brisket is hard to cook because of timing.

• If you don’t cook it long enough, it is inedible
• If you cook it too hot, the bark is too hard and it, again, is inedible.
• If you cook it too long, it falls apart and that is not what you want.

So, there are a lot of ways to screw it up.

This method worked out wonderfully. We did a video, but left out some of the details. You can watch it here: (more…)

By Thomas Cox

I have tried to cook brisket numerous times and have screwed it up most of them.

Brisket is hard to cook because of timing.

• If you don’t cook it long enough, it is inedible
• If you cook it too hot, the bark is too hard and it, again, is inedible.
• If you cook it too long, it falls apart and that is not what you want.

So, there are a lot of ways to screw it up.

This method worked out wonderfully. We did a video, but left out some of the details. You can watch it here: (more…)

By Thomas Cox

I have tried to cook brisket numerous times and have screwed it up most of them.

Brisket is hard to cook because of timing.

• If you don’t cook it long enough, it is inedible
• If you cook it too hot, the bark is too hard and it, again, is inedible.
• If you cook it too long, it falls apart and that is not what you want.

So, there are a lot of ways to screw it up.

This method worked out wonderfully. We did a video, but left out some of the details. You can watch it here: (more…)

By Thomas Cox

I have tried to cook brisket numerous times and have screwed it up most of them.

Brisket is hard to cook because of timing.

• If you don’t cook it long enough, it is inedible
• If you cook it too hot, the bark is too hard and it, again, is inedible.
• If you cook it too long, it falls apart and that is not what you want.

So, there are a lot of ways to screw it up.

This method worked out wonderfully. We did a video, but left out some of the details. You can watch it here: (more…)

By Thomas Cox

I have tried to cook brisket numerous times and have screwed it up most of them.

Brisket is hard to cook because of timing.

• If you don’t cook it long enough, it is inedible
• If you cook it too hot, the bark is too hard and it, again, is inedible.
• If you cook it too long, it falls apart and that is not what you want.

So, there are a lot of ways to screw it up.

This method worked out wonderfully. We did a video, but left out some of the details. You can watch it here: (more…)

Finding the time to do everything in a day is tough, but Thomas Cox shared his secrets on “The Ford Faction.”

In this episode, Thomas Cox from Mealfit.co discussed where his parenting techniques come from and how he finds time to execute them. He breaks down the processes he does with each of his children.

First, he teaches them to be strong like Samson. He wants his kids to be strong in many ways: mentally, physically, socially and spiritually.
(more…)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Thomas Cox from Mealfit breaks down how important a morning routine really is. He says that our brain can only make so many good decisions throughout the day and to use your time wisely. The routine is simple and easy to follow. He goes onto talk about examining success, “look at successful people, they wear minimalistic clothing.”

He mentions how you need to wake up before your kids, and how you “should always guide them, don’t let them guide you.” Thomas has a morning routine that will make you think about how you start your day off every morning and want to change it.

Mealfit is a company founded on making eating easier and healthier. Thomas feels motivating people through food and lifestyle is the way he can truly impact this world
(more…)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

Thomas Cox began his business, Mealfit, in 2013 from his kitchen table. A friend came to him with a dilemma of how to eat healthy so Thomas used his expertise in meal planning to help. This quickly turned into his everyday life. Thomas describes how he went from coaching to now providing meal plans, ready to eat food, and guidance outside of the kitchen. Eat right, work hard and move! It is Time to Thrive with Thomas Cox!

Mealfit is a company founded on making eating easier and healthier. Thomas feels motivating people through food and lifestyle is the way he can truly impact this world
(more…)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food

Dads don’t like to eat—said no dad ever. Saw’s BBQ has three locations in the Birmingham area and was recently proclaimed by Men’s Journal as the “Best Barbecue in America.”

Full Moon Bar-B-Que has trademarked itself as the “Best Little Pork House in Alabama” and cooks its meat low and slow over a hickory wood-fired pit. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water?

Time Pieces

A good watch makes the man. In addition to battery replacements and precision repairs, Barton-Clay in Mountain Brook has stylish time pieces that would look great on your old man. Their staff of highly skilled jewelers can accommodate every request.

For more than 180 years Bromberg’s has provided fine jewelry and giftware options for the most discerning customers in Birmingham. They have watches of all kinds, and they all look great.

Cigars

If dad is partial to stogies, The Humidor Room offers a full bar, a wide variety of fine cigars and tobacco products from around the world. A great place to relax with a drink and a smoke.

Vitola Fine Cigars is a family owned and operated tobacconist located in Mountain Brook Village. They specialize in premium cigars, pipes and a great atmosphere. Drop by and smoke a cigar in their lounge filled with leather chairs, big screen TVs and great conversation.

Grill Master

What dad doesn’t like to man the grill? Alabama Gaslight & Grill in Homewood is a family-owned and operated specialty hearth, grill and gas lantern retail outlet. All of their products are made in the USA, and any of them would make a super-cool VIP gift.

ABSCO Fireplace & Patio has two locations around Birmingham is the source for the finest grills from Big Green Egg and Firemagic and a huge selection of fireplace hearths and accessories. They are also a one-stop source for outdoor fireplaces and firepits.

Fitness/Workout Warrior

If dad finds his happy place by working out, Highpoint Climbing and Fitness brings world class climbing to Alabama with 25,000 square feet of indoor climbing surface featuring walls up to 52+ feet tall. They also offer a Kid Zone, Bouldering Room, Weight and Aerobic Rooms, and yoga classes.

Want to lift some iron in The Iron City? Iron Tribe Fitness blends one-on-one coaching with group fitness. Membership at every ITF gym is strictly limited to 300 athletes. They offer great personal coaching and a positive environment where dad can work out in a group of his peers.

Speed

What dad doesn’t feel the need for speed? Autobahn Indoor Speedway provides a premier indoor go-kart racing experience. They deliver the freedom and the exhilaration of driving a high performance vehicle in a safe, comfortable and fun environment.

Is your dad is a NASCAR fan, he knows all about Talladega Superspeedway. Did you know you can buy him a package to get behind the wheel at the legendary raceway? The gift of a day at their NASCAR Racing Experience or Richard Petty Driving Experience is a racing fan’s dream come true.

Sports

If dad is more into spectator sports, the Birmingham Barons are the AA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and offer great baseball with a small town minor league atmosphere. Their game on Father’s Day will allow you to “Play Catch with Dad” in the outfield before the game starts.

The Birmingham Legion will be bringing pro soccer to the area and will launch their inaugural season next year. Get in on the ground floor and get dad tickets now.

Outdoorsman

What to get the outdoorsman who has everything? A gift card from Mark’s Outdoors would be the smart move. They have everything he could want for hunting, fishing, archery and much more.

Lake Purdy is a fisherman’s paradise. Rent a fishing boat. Get all the bait you need. Haul in big fish. A day well spent.

Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park with 9,940 acres. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, water sports, cable skiing, beach, horseback riding and much more.

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food
(more…)

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food
(more…)

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag out to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food

Dads don’t like to eat—said no dad ever. Saw’s BBQ has three locations in the Birmingham area and was recently proclaimed by Men’s Journal as the “Best Barbecue in America.”

Full Moon Bar-B-Que has trademarked itself as the “Best Little Pork House in Alabama” and cooks its meat low and slow over a hickory wood-fired pit. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water?

Time Pieces

A good watch makes the man. In addition to battery replacements and precision repairs, Barton-Clay in Mountain Brook has stylish time pieces that would look great on your old man. Their staff of highly skilled jewelers can accommodate every request.

For more than 180 years Bromberg’s has provided fine jewelry and giftware options for the most discerning customers in Birmingham. They have watches of all kinds, and they all look great.

Cigars

If dad is partial to stogies, The Humidor Room offers a full bar, a wide variety of fine cigars and tobacco products from around the world. A great place to relax with a drink and a smoke.

Vitola Fine Cigars is a family owned and operated tobacconist located in Mountain Brook Village. They specialize in premium cigars, pipes and a great atmosphere. Drop by and smoke a cigar in their lounge filled with leather chairs, big screen TVs and great conversation.

Grill Master

What dad doesn’t like to man the grill? Alabama Gaslight & Grill in Homewood is a family-owned and operated specialty hearth, grill and gas lantern retail outlet. All of their products are made in the USA, and any of them would make a super-cool VIP gift.

ABSCO Fireplace & Patio has two locations around Birmingham is the source for the finest grills from Big Green Egg and Firemagic and a huge selection of fireplace hearths and accessories. They are also a one-stop source for outdoor fireplaces and firepits.

Fitness/Workout Warrior

If dad finds his happy place by working out, Highpoint Climbing and Fitness brings world class climbing to Alabama with 25,000 square feet of indoor climbing surface featuring walls up to 52+ feet tall. They also offer a Kid Zone, Bouldering Room, Weight and Aerobic Rooms, and yoga classes.

Want to lift some iron in The Iron City? Iron Tribe Fitness blends one-on-one coaching with group fitness. Membership at every ITF gym is strictly limited to 300 athletes. They offer great personal coaching and a positive environment where dad can work out in a group of his peers.

Speed

What dad doesn’t feel the need for speed? Autobahn Indoor Speedway provides a premier indoor go-kart racing experience. They deliver the freedom and the exhilaration of driving a high performance vehicle in a safe, comfortable and fun environment.

Is your dad is a NASCAR fan, he knows all about Talladega Superspeedway. Did you know you can buy him a package to get behind the wheel at the legendary raceway? The gift of a day at their NASCAR Racing Experience or Richard Petty Driving Experience is a racing fan’s dream come true.

Sports

If dad is more into spectator sports, the Birmingham Barons are the AA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and offer great baseball with a small town minor league atmosphere. Their game on Father’s Day will allow you to “Play Catch with Dad” in the outfield before the game starts.

The Birmingham Legion will be bringing pro soccer to the area and will launch their inaugural season next year. Get in on the ground floor and get dad tickets now.

Outdoorsman

What to get the outdoorsman who has everything? A gift card from Mark’s Outdoors would be the smart move. They have everything he could want for hunting, fishing, archery and much more.

Lake Purdy is a fisherman’s paradise. Rent a fishing boat. Get all the bait you need. Haul in big fish. A day well spent.

Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park with 9,940 acres. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, water sports, cable skiing, beach, horseback riding and much more.

There has been so much written about “what women really mean when they say something,” the topic should have its own wing in the Library of Congress. For men it’s much simpler. When your dad says he doesn’t want a gift for Father’s Day, it usually means either a.) he really wants something, or b.) your previous gifts to him have been so awful, he doesn’t want another ugly necktie.
It’s time to think classy, be a hero to dad and not break your bank account in the process. Forget the ties and the cheap cologne. Here are the best categories for gifts that he will brag about to his buds.

Golf

It’s a fact: men of a certain age tend to like golf. Bent Brook Golf Course in Birmingham is a 27-hole course designed for play that is challenging enough for advanced players while still being enjoyable for players with higher handicaps. Book dad a tee time online and give him a relaxing day chasing a little white ball.

If he just likes practicing his swing, Top Golf Birmingham has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bars and a rooftop terrace with a fire pit. Their Father’s Day package will make him feel like a VIP.

Gun and Tactical

It’s also a fact that a lot of dads like to shoot. Sheepdog Firearms in Trussville is a unique gun store, shooting range and training facility. In addition to its 4,000 square feet retail area, Sheepdog has a state-of-the-art target retrieval system for an experience that will challenge even the most advanced target shooters.

From archery to firearms, Hoover Tactical Firearms aims to be your one-stop-shop when it comes to weapons. Check out their largest indoor range in the state, shop, archery range and clothing and accessories.

Food
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