It's easy to find your inner warrior in Toronto thanks toTorvik, which bills itself as a "living Viking history" group.

"We introduce people to the hobby of historical reenactment, which is more than just combat but also costumery, crafting, and general nerding out," says Torvik leader Nadim via email. Torvik, which helped found the American and Canadian The Vikings - Vinland organization, was born at a pub in 2002 and has remained active in the city since then.

At anupcoming public training eventon April 17, Nadim hopes that the hobby sticks for some attendees as it'll be quite the hands-on affair. "There will also be the chance to pick up a weapon, helmet, and gloves, and try your hand at fighting with us as we take you through the basics of our system of combat," he explains.

Though it'll be relatively light compared to Torvik's real reenactments. "We get hired for multiple festivals, carnivals and cultural events at any time of the year," notes Nadim.

"My favourite is the Richmond Hill Winter Carnival in February, where we set up in a woody section of a park, prop up our tent and display tables, cook our meals over fires, and do our combat shows for folks and their kids attending the carnival."

But don't worry, you won't have to camp out next Saturday. Anyone is welcome to attend and you don't need to have any combat experience. Nadim stresses, of course, that his group always puts safety first.

Photo viaTorvik on Facebook.