Smash House KC: A destructive and safe way to release your anger

Unless you are my older sister who purposefully chases me up the stairs every time I try walking to my bedroom, I’m not one to spur violent interactions with anyone.

As someone who typically deals with anger by crying for five minutes and then shoving it into the depths of my brain, I don’t have too many healthy ways of letting go.

Considering the chaotic year that was 2020, I have more than enough reasons for wanting to repeatedly punch my pillow after each draining Webex meeting. After dramatically writing down every reason I could be angry at the world for, I opted for a different method to cope with my emotions by booking an appointment at Smash House KC in hopes of releasing all of my pent up anger.

Located inside the Hyvee Arena in downtown KCMO, the venue is only accessible by entering the main entrance of the arena and walking towards the store’s suite number — 149. But the friendly workers and helpful signs made it easy to locate.

It’s suggested that you book your appointment in advance through their website and pay a required $10 deposit when doing so. Services range from five minutes in the rage room for $20 to 30 minutes for $100. There are multiple other large group packages available on their website and even a glow paint fight and food fight package deal. I went with the “I’m Upset” package, allowing me 10 minutes in the rage room for $35. 

Upon entering the store, the sound of a bat hitting metal fought for my attention against the blaring speakers that played the Fall Out Boy song, “Centuries.” The amount of energy Smash House KC radiated before even entering my rage room made me thankful I had skipped out on the coffee that morning. 

The entryway is filled with different arcade games and candy machines, while the opposing corner has Smash House KC merchandise on display. You must be 18 in order to sign the consent form, so if you’re not, make sure to bring someone who is old enough to sign for you.

Before you’re allowed to smash, an employee walks you through safety precautions and double checks that the clothing you wore is covering all parts of your body. Then, they provide two layers of gloves, a rubber apron, a hard hat and eye protection — and a mask of course.

As I was handed my bat of choice, I could not stop repeating the countless reasons I was mad in my head. The staff member guided me behind the counter, through the floor-to-ceiling-lined black tarps. When I entered my room, I saw glass bottles, plates and bowls, a washing machine, furnace and old computer sitting on the concrete floor. 

The minute I started smashing was when my 10 minutes began. I couldn’t help but take my first swing at the washing machine — something in my gut told me it had to be destroyed. 

I felt the vibrations in my hands from swinging hard at the metal and watched the glass scatter across the concrete as I threw plates onto the floor. I couldn’t think of anything other than hitting each item harder than I did before and was left extremely satisfied.

Five minutes in and I was exhausted. Covered in full clothing with extra protection left me sweaty and breathing heavy, so I was thankful when the staff member interrupted with my two minute warning. 

After being escorted out of my rage room, a staff member was sent to sweep the pieces that were destroyed, while the larger pieces were left for the next person. I was offered a free picture in front of their Smash House KC balloon display and returned my gear to the front counter where they sanitized everything before restocking the smash-ready items.

What surprised me most about this experience was how great I felt afterwards. Despite my sore shoulders from swinging the bat so much, letting out my pent-up anger felt empowering and rewarding. Now I just have to learn how to unwind without destroying a washing machine.