The School offers two classes, both based on our instructors’ experience and developed around the comparative analysis of treatises written by fencing masters from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period. They are bound to German (Lutegerus and the Masters related to Kunst des fechtens: Liechtenauer, Lignitzer, Meyer) and Italian tradition (Fiore de’ Liberi, Dalle Agocchie, Manciolino and other Masters from the Bolognese school.
Our courses are open to everyone, in spite of age or fitness level, all the year around.
On request we can hold lessons in English.
Longsword
This is our main course. As the name implies this is a rather long weapon, measuring up to 140-145 cm (55-57 inches) in length. It is wielded with both hands and has a simple crossguard.The Longsword programme is based on the comparative study of German Longsword treatises from the Middle Ages (Masters from the Lichtenauer School of Fencing) and the Renaissance (Joachim Meyer). The course is based on the experience acquired through years of training and on the cooperation with Instructors from Northern Europe, especially Keith Farrell (UK).
Time and location
- School Emilio Salgari
via Lussimpiccolo 34 - Monday and Thursday
From 8 pm to 10 pm
One handed sword
Our courses focus specifically on the Sidesword (both Italian and German sources from the XVI century) and Dussack (German sources from the XVI century).
- Sidesword: about a meter long (39 inches), this weapon has a more complex and protective hilt than the longsword and is wielded in the dominant hand. It can be used alone or alongside other weapons.
- Dussack: an even shorter weapon, the Dussack is a XVI century German saber whose use is taught in close relation to that of the Longsword as many of the mechanics employed in both disciplines are similar.
Time and location
- School Duca d’Aosta
via Carlo Capelli 51 (the entrance is in via Vittorio Asinari di Bernezzo) - Tuesday
From 8 pm to 10 pm
Recommendations
5 tips for your first lesson:
- What to bring
Bring a pair of clean sport shoes, comfortable sportswear and a bottle of water (with mineral supplements if you feel like it).
- What about HEMA-specific gear?
We will provide you with a nylon sword replica, just bring a pair of light gloves to get a better grip on the hilt (biking or weightlifting gloves will do). The rest of the equipment shall come with time.
- When to arrive
We will be at the gym half an hour prior to the lessons so feel free to arrive a bit early and we will be glad to meet you and answer all of your questions.
If you are interested in such a particular discipline you are surely gifted with curiosity and determination. Hold onto these precious qualities during the whole lesson! Do not hesitate to ask questions if you feel curious!
Do not push yourself over your limits, especially during warm-up and workout. With time and effort you will develop strength and endurance but straining yourself on your first lesson will not help.
You are now ready for your first lesson!
