Regarding the Basics of Measure in Rapier & Approaching from Out of Measure
Measure is a foundational principle of the Italian fencing system. Here's an overview of Misura, plus approaching from Out of Measure.
Approaching the Four Temperaments of a Fencer
According to the late-Renaissance Italian fencing masters, there are four temperaments of rapier fencers. Here's how to defeat each.
On the Properties & Uses of Guardia Quarta
Quarta (fourth guard) is the only guard to protect the inside line, but there are variations. Here's more about the guard & sample plays.
On the Properties & Uses of Guardia Terza
Terza (third guard) is often the default guard for Italian rapierists but it's use goes beyond just standing on-guard.
Optimizing Your Outfit for Online Rapier Coaching
Teaching rapier (or any fencing) online? What you wear can make a big difference in the visual info your students get.
On the Properties & Uses of Guardia Seconda
Seconda is one of our primary guards for defending & offending on the outside line. Here's a dive into the guard formation, plus some sample plays & uses.
On the Properties & Uses of Guardia Prima
Prima (or first guard) is a rather underutilized guard in the Italian rapier system. Here's more about the guard and some sample uses.
Alfieri 1640: The First Four ‘Natural’ Guards for Single Rapier
We continue our dive into Alfieri's rapier manual by looking at the four "natural" or cardinal guards.
Alfieri 1640: What’s the Deal with ‘Guardia Mista’?
So what exactly is Alfieri's 'guardia mista' or mixed guard? Let's dive down a rabbit hole to see what Alfieri was talking about in his mysterious fifth guard.
Beyond the Basics of Italian Rapier: Fun Footwork with Closed Guards
Give your rapier & dagger game a boost by mixing together this fun fencing footwork and closed guards.