Drive your work first to the weak, then to the strong, then to the body. – Joachim Meyer, 1571

Class Description

This class is open to any student who has finished the Longsword: Essentials course. It covers the use of the Handtarbeit or “handwork”, a variety of interrelated techniques in the Kunst des Fechtens that are used to defend oneself or gain an advantage against an opponent.

You will work through these techniques in a variety of partner drills designed to first teach you these techniques, then test your ability to perform them in a noncompliant setting. For this reason a fencing mask and gloves are absolutely necessary for participation.

Class Format

A variety of drills are used throughout this class:

• Tutorial/Block Drill: Working with a partner for a set amount of time explore the techniques to understand their motions and purpose.
• Exchange Drill: Partners take turn, practicing the technique and then immediately resetting and switching roles. This drill style helps add realism to the practice.
• Bouting: While still focusing on the techniques at hand partners are allowed to initiate the actions freely, the focus is on making the technique work in a less compliant scenario.