Course introductionCourse codes: RAP-120

Approaching with Rapier I: Mechanics

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4 chapters21 lessonsLevel 1 · Apprentice

Prerequisite: This course assumes the knowledge of the three Rapier Fundamentals courses.

Approaching is the part of the sword fight where you move toward the opponent to control and attack. It may be how the sword fight begins, or a particular moment when you decide to approach.

Posture and Measure: The focus in the first two lessons is to refine and challenge your fundamental mechanics of movement and your understanding of measure. Building from the basics you’ll understand the different types of opportunities that exist at each measure and how to get to them.

Blade Control: These lessons will strengthen your ability to find and gain control of the opponent’s sword using the three advantages: 1) Edge, 2) Leverage, and 3) Crossing. Through progressive exercises you’ll deepen your ability to deflect your opponent’s weapon while you simultaneously strike.

Course outline

01Rapier Posture6 lessons
  1. Guard TransitionsLesson
  2. Lower Body AlignmentLesson
  3. Quarta (Fourth)Lesson
  4. Prima (First)Lesson
  5. Seconda (Second)Lesson
  6. Terza (Third)Lesson
02Lunging Measures6 lessons
  1. Measures ExerciseLesson
  2. Misura LarghissimaLesson
  3. Misura LargaLesson
  4. Misura StrettaLesson
  5. Misura StrettissimaLesson
  6. Out of MeasureLesson
03Finding and Gaining the Sword5 lessons
  1. Tessitura: Finding and Gaining ExerciseLesson
  2. Common Errors when Gaining the SwordLesson
  3. Striking while Maintaining Mechanical Strength and SafetyLesson
  4. Common Errors when Finding the SwordLesson
  5. The Three Advantages to Find the SwordLesson
04Angled and High Swords4 lessons
  1. Finding the High SwordLesson
  2. Gaining the High SwordLesson
  3. Gaining the Angled SwordLesson
  4. Gaining the Straight SwordLesson