A typical practice combines fitness and skill training. We begin with fitness: strength, flexibility, coordination, and sound biomechanics are essential to move naturally and execute martial techniques effectively.
The rest of practice focuses on technique and tactics across five “sister” skills: wrestling, longsword, dagger, single sword (with or without a shield), and staff weapons. Fundamentals are emphasized through solo and paired drills, as well as sparring.
Wrestling
Foundation for control and balance
Wrestling is a foundational skill for swordfighting, with games and competitions found in nearly every European culture. In combat, it includes strikes, throws, locks, and kicks, and integrates seamlessly with weapons, teaching footwork, efficient use of power, and sound biomechanics.
Training benefit: Wrestling develops body awareness, balance, and the ability to control an opponent without relying solely on strength—skills that transfer to all martial arts.
Dagger
Close-quarters weapon for speed and decisiveness
The dagger is a humbling weapon, extremely dangerous at close quarters and intimidating even at a distance. Daggers make grappling more hazardous and challenge sport-oriented skillsets. Practicing the dagger cultivates decisiveness, realism, and respect for the weapon’s lethality.
Historical context: Daggers were often a last-resort weapon or sidearm. Training emphasizes speed, accuracy, and mental focus under pressure.
Longsword
Two-handed power, timing, and coordination
Longswords are imposing yet surprisingly light and agile two-handed swords. They were the first weapon I taught and remain the most popular tournament weapon in HEMA. Italian, German, and English traditions inform their use. Training with the longsword encourages courage and forthrightness.
Training benefit: Longsword practice develops reach control, timing, and coordination of both sides of the body—benefits that improve overall martial skill and athleticism.
Single Sword
Precision and strategic thinking with one hand
Single-handed swords include a variety of weapons. At Swordfighters, we begin with the arming sword, the sidearm of the Middle Ages. Other single swords include the Scottish and English broadsword, rapier, and saber. Training deepens your understanding of timing, positioning, and distance.
Training benefit: Single sword practice hones precision and strategic thinking, as each strike must be deliberate and defenses continuously adjusted.
Sword and Shield
Defense, initiative, and spatial awareness
The earliest manuals, dating from the 1300s, teach sword and buckler techniques. The buckler—a small, easily carried shield—enables subtle, flowing combat, allowing the fighter to press the opponent while controlling the measure.
Viking-style sword and shield combat predates the buckler and is more physically demanding. Like the buckler, a larger shield allows the swordfighter to engage and maintain pressure.
Training benefit: Shield work enhances spatial awareness and defensive tactics, teaching you to manage multiple threats while maintaining initiative.
Staff Weapons
Versatile range and full-body coordination
Staff weapons are widely accessible. Long staves offer extended range but are versatile at medium and close distances. They can be dangerous in untrained hands, but their subtle power emerges only through sustained practice.
Training benefit: Staff practice develops coordination, distance management, and full-body power—skills that transfer to other martial arts and everyday movement.