We are currently running two weekly practices, which are open to anyone :
Saturday 2.30-4pm, Kirkwood Intermediate, 260 Riccarton Rd (after archery).
(weather permitting; cancellations will be advertised via the email list)
Currently focusing on Highland Broadsword, according to Page.
Wednesday 8pm-9.30pm, UCSA Ballroom, 90 Ilam Rd.
Focusing on German martial arts (Liechtenauer's Kunst des Fechtens, from the 14th-16thC)
What to bring
We can provide basic loaner equipment, but wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement. Our club does not have a training uniform as such, but members are strongly encouraged to wear appropriate padded garments (similar to what might have been worn training 500 years ago). A drink bottle is also a good idea.
What to expect
Like other martial arts, we start with basics such as footwork, wards (stances) and basic attacks and defences before moving on to more advanced techniques. Tactical concepts such as distance and timing are also introduced early since they are inextricably linked to all aspects of combat.
The main difference between our club and other martial arts is that we're essentially a study group, meaning everyone is encouraged to take an active role in interpreting these arts. This mode of organisation can be a blessing and a curse: it's not uncommon for certain senior members to spend large portions of a class arguing about minor points of a technique; but on the other hand it's exciting to be part of the active reconstruction of an art which even relative novices can have insights into.
If you're interested in interpreting these arts, a few of the manuals we study are linked from the systems page. Of course, it's fine if you just want to train (especially at first, when everything can be a little daunting).