VAF’s popular introductory-level courses in historical swordsmanship (offered for both Youth and Teen & Adults) teach the basics of fighting with the TWO-HANDED SWORD (the medieval knightly weapon, also known as the Longsword) and the RAPIER (the dueling sword of the Renaissance). Students may then specialize in either weapon in at the Intermediate and Advanced levels.

Beginning I
Prerequisites: None (no fencing or martial arts background is necessary)

Curriculum: Six weekly classes cover the history of European swords and swordsmanship and teach the basics of footwork and body mechanics. Using safe sword simulators (bamboo shinai), students are introduced to the basic guards and strikes of the 15th-century German Liechtenauer school of fencing with the two-handed sword. Using rapier simulators, students are introduced to the basic stances, guards and techniques of Italian rapier combat. For both weapons, students drill techniques individually and in pairs, and are allowed to engage in safe free fencing under the supervision of the instructor.

Equipment: Students should wear loose, comfortable athletic clothes: tee shirt, sweat pants (no shorts, jeans, or pants with protruding pockets), and non-scuffing athletic footwear. A pair of gloves is required. Fencing gear (mask, jacket) and sword simulators are all available at VAF. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP.

Beginning II
Prerequisites: Beginning I

Curriculum: In six weekly classes the basics covered in the first class are reviewed and supplemented with more advanced techniques, such as the five “secret strikes” in German two-handed sword fencing and “finding the sword” in Italian rapier; and students partner for drills and engage in safe, supervised fencing.

Equipment: Same as Beginning I – all fencing gear is available at VAF. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP.

Click here for a schedule of upcoming Historical Swordsmanship classes.

Two-Handed Sword fencers, from the 16th-century combat manual of Joachim Meyer