We practice a variety of styles, largely from German and Italian sources from the 15th through 17th centuries, and encompassing a variety of ways to play at fighting with swords: longsword, rapier, sword & buckler, sabre... each practitioner has special areas of interest that they explore.
We train with a large variety of weapons, including but not exclusive to:
‣ Longswords ‣ Sabers ‣ Sideswords ‣ German Messers ‣ Including Spiked Hungarian Shields ‣ Arming Sword & Buckler Shield |
We work hard in the gym, study the works of the masters in depth, and then put our physical training and academic research into practice via sparring & tournaments.
We believe that striking a balance between application and research is the best way to recreate a martial art that is both gorgeous and a blast to practice. |
Are you beginner friendly?
Very much so! Having sports or martial arts experience can be helpful, but it's certainly not required. We love beginners because they come to us as a clean slate ready to absorb new skills. We welcome everyone regardless of experience, fitness level, ability, or body type. Sword fighting is to be enjoyed by everyone!
Is it a good workout?
Absolutely - after your first practice you will learn about musculature you didn't even know existed, even if you are already in great shape. Due to the extra weight of the sword and the explosive nature of fencing, it creates a unique combination that working out at the gym or crossfit cannot provide.
What equipment do I need to participate?
We provide loaner swords to our participants if needed, the only personal piece of equipment that is required when using plastic or steel swords is a mask. We have a list of our recommended masks & links on our Discord, or can provide it upon request. Once you decide that this hobby is something you want to spend your time doing, we can help recommend the best and safest gear for you.
How much is your Trial Class and what should I bring?
Our trial classes are the same cost as the location's drop in rate. Bring comfortable athletic clothing and a water bottle!
What do you use for class & participant management?
We operate through our Discord server. We have channels specific for participants & announcement, as well as a public section with many other HEMA practitioners across the world! Be ready to join a vibrant community and meet many wonderful people :)
Very much so! Having sports or martial arts experience can be helpful, but it's certainly not required. We love beginners because they come to us as a clean slate ready to absorb new skills. We welcome everyone regardless of experience, fitness level, ability, or body type. Sword fighting is to be enjoyed by everyone!
Is it a good workout?
Absolutely - after your first practice you will learn about musculature you didn't even know existed, even if you are already in great shape. Due to the extra weight of the sword and the explosive nature of fencing, it creates a unique combination that working out at the gym or crossfit cannot provide.
What equipment do I need to participate?
We provide loaner swords to our participants if needed, the only personal piece of equipment that is required when using plastic or steel swords is a mask. We have a list of our recommended masks & links on our Discord, or can provide it upon request. Once you decide that this hobby is something you want to spend your time doing, we can help recommend the best and safest gear for you.
How much is your Trial Class and what should I bring?
Our trial classes are the same cost as the location's drop in rate. Bring comfortable athletic clothing and a water bottle!
What do you use for class & participant management?
We operate through our Discord server. We have channels specific for participants & announcement, as well as a public section with many other HEMA practitioners across the world! Be ready to join a vibrant community and meet many wonderful people :)
We acknowledge that The Historical Combat Collective operates on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Kwikwetlem, Sto:lo and Songhees First Nations Peoples. We are grateful to have the opportunity to gather, work, and train on this land.
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