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Davenriche
has completed a book on using the longsword, find out more
about it here.
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Click
on the pictures here to learn more about these projects |
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| People
mistakenly associate martial arts exclusively with the Asian fighting
arts. Currently, there is a renaissance in the study of historically
accurate Western Martial Arts, from medieval fighting manuals. These
manuals have revealed a well-established, highly sophisticated European
fighting system, employing swords, rapiers, daggers, shields, pole
axes, etc. |
| Unfortunately,
theatrical and popular media portrayals have reduced European martial
arts to the myth that combatants merely crudely bludgeoned, hacked, and
slashed savagely at their opponents. In reality, European martial arts
integrate footwork, avoidance, and the ability to use timing and
distance to exploit and enhance the sword's inherent cutting and
thrusting capabilities. These skills include techniques for grappling,
wrestling, kicking, throwing, and disarming of the opponent. European
martial arts are distinctly different from modern Olympic fencing and
Asian martial arts. |
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Enthusiasts of
modern fencing, historical reenactment and role playing games are now
starting to focus on historically accurate methods of medieval and
renaissance fighting skills. The differences between the English,
Italian and Spanish schools of rapier and sword play have been studied
at length. How to properly wear your weapon, particularly when in a
crowd, and knowing when not to use it, are two of the skills a
swordsman must have.
Weapons safety
was as important to the Renaissance swordsman as it is today. Full
armor is not conducive to fine sword work, but a variety of protective
gear, including heavy (padded) jackets, gauntlets, boots and helmets,
was routinely used. In addition, practice weapons with blunted edges
and points, and more flexible blades have been used. Modern adaptations
include utilization of bamboo swords (shinais) which have been adapted
to provide weight and balance more similar to that of a long sword.
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Contents Copyright ©
2001-2005, Steaphen Fick
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