You may be familiar with the all-white kit worn by sports fencers. Historical combat, however, demands greater protection against hits from heavier metal or nylon weapons.
HEMA clubs and competitions will each set their own standards for protective gear; the amount of protection worn in classes, and training sessions will also vary according to the intensity and the weapons used. …
HEMA: Protective Gear Read More »
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) is the serious study and live application of combat techniques from the early Medieval period, through the Renaissance, to the late Nineteenth century.
HEMA is not a fantasy activity like LARP (Live Action Role-playing), it is not historical re-enactment, nor is it choreographed stage fighting. It should be treated the same as other martial arts such as boxing, karate, ju-jitsu and the like. This means a constant and strict regard for the risk of injury, with appropriate steps (instruction, donning protective gear) to mitigate and minimise such risk. …
HEMA: Safe conduct of classes Read More »
Studying historical combat techniques with heavy weapons is rewarding and fun, but, like most other martial arts, inherently risky. We all have proper jobs to go back to, families to look after, bills to pay; things that are difficult enough without the added burden of trips to A&E, bandages, splints, crutches and the long-lasting effects of concussion (genuinely no laughing matter). We are not 24/7 Medieval or Renaissance warriors. This is a hobby more than a lifestyle choice. …
HEMA – is it safe? Read More »
by Robin Catling.
From Pirates of the Caribbean, to Star Wars and even Transformers, it seems every other movie poster features a character with a sword; there’s been a slew of TV and online ads featuring Olympic fencers in action, TV shows such as Arrow and the Musketeers keep the skill and the romance of the sword alive. It’s no wonder even the smallest children want to give it a try. …
In praise of plastic Read More »
Modern fencing is a martial art derived from older forms of duelling with swords. The objective is to hit your opponent without being hit yourself. Modern fencing is a competitive form that emulates a duel – the weapons are blunt and a secondary objective after winning the bout is not to injure anyone. Read more…
Before you even walk into any fencing club or tournament, you’ll hear the bright sound of clashing steel. This is both combat martial art and sport.
The modern sport of fencing has three different events: foil, epée and sabre, each with its own history, target area and rules. The goal in all three weapons is to hit the opponent on the valid target area without being hit yourself… Read more…
Not if done properly. Although executed at speed, a good, clean fencing attack hurts no more than a tap on the shoulder. The force of the blow is normally absorbed by the flex of the blade. Reckless and overly aggressive fencers can occasionally deliver painful blows, however. Fencing *is* a martial art, so you should expect minor bruises and welts every now and again. They are rarely intentional. The most painful blows tend to come from inexperienced fencers who have not yet acquired the feel of the weapon. Read more…
Fencing is a safe sport. Regulation equipment conforming to safety standards and common sense fencing helps to maintain our good safety record. Read more…
If that has piqued your interest, try the following posts:
New to Fencing: Start Here Read More »
West Devon Swords runs a number of beginners’ courses.
The beginners course is designed for people who are interested in learning to fence but have no experience. It is a basic introduction to either foil, épée or sabre fencing.
Students will be assessed at the end of the course and signed off at the equivalent of British Fencing Grade One, mostly as a safety measure to ensure all beginners are safe to release into the club sessions.
What is the Beginners Fencing Course? Read More »
Wear suitable clothing as for any kind of anaerobic sport. That means:
Think about bringing a towel, a change of clothes and even a drinks bottle.
The club reserves the right to turn away anyone dressed inappropriately for fencing.
What do I wear for fencing? Read More »
Our guidelines on safety are under constant review.
Also, beginners may appreciate the reassurance under Does it Hurt?
In short: no.
Fencing is a safe sport. Regulation equipment conforming to safety standards and common sense fencing helps to maintain our good safety record.
If you are attending classes for the first time, please observe the dress code outlined in What do I wear?
A summary of British Fencing Safety Guidelines is available as a PDF document.
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The Essential Equipment Guide is available as a PDF document. Indicative prices are correct as at September 2013.
Finally, a few common sense precautions. Although they apply to all, they are directed more at the younger fencer whose enthusiasm and exuberance is sometimes difficult to control!
• The mask
• The plastron
• The jacket
• The glove
• Breeches
