Our classes are available to beginners as well as experienced fencers! No special equipment is necessary; we have all the loaner gear you will need. (See below for what to bring.) Each class begins with a warmup, proceeds with drills and exercises, and ends with optional open fencing (for those who have attained sufficient proficiency).

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All new students begin with bâton, which, though requiring less safety equipment, teaches movement, relaxation, coordination, tactics, and mechanics, all of which transfer directly to other weapons—especially longsword. (Introductory classes with rapier and/or foil are also possible on Tuesday evenings.)

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Our bâton training begins with learning basic movements and footwork, then applying them in target games. Then you'll learn the parry system, and after that apply the techniques in bouting-like games until you've learned all of the basic tactical concepts and can apply them under pressure in a judged bout. These ideas then scaffold the other weapons. For these weapons, like rapier and longsword, we'll drill a particular technique mechanically, then do the followup or counter to it, then turn it into an options drill with tactical choices. We also do a lot of bouting games, where one fencer has a certain goal or tactical restriction, and the other has a complimentary goal or restriction.

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Because this activity carries some inherent risks and because classes are geared towards adult learning styles, we ask that students be over 16 years old. If you are younger than 16, we recommend either starting with modern fencing or checking out Swords of Chivalry in Acton. (If you're under 18, please have your parent or legal guardian fill out the waiver!)

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Please note that class is somewhat strenuous, and we recommend you check with your physician before beginning any exercise program. Please inform the instructor of any preexisting medical conditions.

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Please read and fill out this electronic waiver before your first class. You can not participate until you have filled it out and agreed to its terms and conditions.

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IMPORTANT: Classes are held in two locations.

 

What to bring for your first class:

Remember to fill out this electronic waiver

Athletic clothing (no shorts, please!)

An athletic cup (for those of applicable anatomy—this is for safety and not optional)

Water bottle

Clean sneakers (flat soled low-tops are better)