What You'll Learn
- the four tempos (opportunities) to safely attack an opponent
- three core defensive principles to keep you safe from attack
- how to make strong defenses that lead to counter attacks
- how to safely recover from a failed attack
- the basic elements that make up a sword fight
- putting together the building blocks of a sword fight with a partner
- working at different speeds for drilling and sparring
Practitioners of other longsword systems (German or Spanish, for instance) will see many mechanical similarities, even though the terminology may be different.
Each topic contains a short video, retention quiz and practice notes.
What You'll Need
- A sword specifically made for practice, preferably one constructed, weighted and balanced to match the sword being studied.
- If you don't have a sword, a wooden dowel or other staff (36–42 inches for rapier/sidesword, 40–50 inches for longsword).
- Gloves can make handling some swords more comfortable and prevent abrasions.
- A mirror, video camera, or partner to help check your form and provide feedback.
