Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) Kunst des Fechtens

Reconstruction of European combat from manuscripts such as Liechtenauer, Fiore dei Liberi and Talhoffer.

Key characteristics

• Longsword, messer, wrestling (ringen)

Forms & curriculum

• Varies by school.

What training looks like

Weapon arts usually start with stance, footwork and handling using training tools (wooden or blunt). Solo patterns come first; partner drills and controlled sparring come later.

Questions to ask a school

• Are training weapons provided?
• What safety equipment is used?
• How do empty-hand basics connect to the weapon work?