Left Vom Tag: does it exist? How do we do it? Is it a position worth training? This is a discussion that comes up every so often, with fairly predictable responses to say both yes and no.[1][2][3] It usually devolves into arguments that these …
More thoughts about tricks and systems (in real life too!)
The discussion about tricks and systems in HEMA seems to be recurring quite regularly at the moment. I recently saw something while reading an article about business productivity that gave me a new avenue of ideas to pursue, so I’d like to share …
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My goals for 2019
Since the new year is upon us, I’d like to set myself some goals for 2019. I could do that quietly and privately, but I want to try and give myself a little public accountability, to make sure I actually get these things done! …
Skill development in test cutting
Test cutting with sharp swords is a valuable exercise for HEMA practitioners. However, as with any exercise or skill, there must be development and progression in the skill, so that it becomes better and more relevant to the activity in …
Is your art really “a killing art”?
Back in September, Kaja Sadowski posted quite an interesting question to Facebook for discussion by her friends and colleagues: Honest question for my HEMA friends: if you consider the totality of the sources you work from, to what extent is the …
Making Mutieren work in sparring
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 13th January 2017. It has been edited and improved for posting here. Following on from my article about how to make techniques work in sparring, I would like to present a case study from my …
Good fencing, bad fencing, and incorrect fencing
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 20th May 2016. It has been edited and improved for posting here. Can good fencing ever be considered “bad fencing” or “incorrect fencing” at the same time? Sometimes people integrate …
Using lighter swords in training
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 25th March 2016. It has been edited and improved for posting here. I often hear the advice that you should train with a heavier sword, in order to improve your strength, balance, …
Attacking the hands in sparring
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 28th August 2015. It has been edited and improved for posting here. Every so often, I find a discussion (online and in person, in roughly equal quantities) where people debate the merits …
Feinting with the longsword, according to Ringeck
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 18th September 2015. It has been edited and improved for posting here. A common action in modern Olympic fencing is that of feinting: making it look like you intend to do one thing, when in …
The development of historical technique in modern HEMA tournaments
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 15th May 2015. It has been edited and improved for posting here. One of the criticisms that is often levelled at modern HEMA tournaments is that the fighting seen in the bouts does not look …
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The problem of attribute fencing
This article was originally posted on Encased in Steel on 21st February 2014. It has been edited and improved for posting here. This article will attempt to define and explore the concept of attribute fencing, and why relying on this style of …
Footwork and handwork for longsword
Footwork is undoubtedly one of the most important skills to develop for any martial art, and HEMA longsword is no exception. I have the impression that people often become quite caught up with trying to integrate their footwork into their …
Some thoughts about tricks and systems in HEMA
I believe that there is a difference between a system and a bag of tricks, where historical martial arts are concerned. Both are effective, and both are important to have in your repertoire; the greatest skill, however, the greatest skill comes with …
How to begin working with a HEMA source
HEMA is an activity that relies on sources; but what does working with a HEMA source involve? Although it may seem obvious to people who have involved in HEMA for a while, it is not the simplest process, and there are many things to consider at each …
Should I buy a Viktor Berbekucz feder?
Question: Is a Viktor Berbekucz feder worth buying? My verdict: Yes - it’s not bad, you can’t go too far wrong with it. …
Should I buy an Albion Meyer?
Question: Is an Albion Meyer worth buying? My verdict: Yes, if you live in North America; otherwise, unfortunately, probably not. …
Should I buy an Albion Liechtenauer?
Question: Is an Albion Liechtenauer worth buying? My verdict: Yes, definitely, if you live in North America; otherwise, unfortunately, probably not. …
Should I buy an Armour Class longsword?
Question: Is an Armour Class longsword worth buying? My verdict: Yes, if you buy a custom-made piece. …
Should I buy a Regenyei Armory feder?
Question: Is a Regenyei Armory feder worth buying? My verdict: Yes, do it. …