Random Acts of Violence: Weird Plays in Rapier & Smallsword
While there are “bread and butter” players found repeatedly in the Franco-Italian-inspired fencing systems, sometimes you run into plays that are weird, different, or very unique. These are a collection of some those plays, including weird engagements, mismatch weapons forms, and two-handing the rapier.
Improving Tactical Decision Making with a Random Cues Drill
One of the keys to improving a fencer is making the drills feel closer to a real bout. This “random cues” drill is a nice step in that direction. It’s like a very unstructured option drill.
Picking an Assault with Someone Not Your Own Size
Not all tactics are created equal. This online workshop covers historical tactics for approaching opponents who are taller, shorter, strong and weaker than you -- plus a bonus faster fencer.
VIDEO: Know Your Enemy: Understanding the Nature & Art of Your Opponent
Not every tactic works against every type of opponent and the quicker we can analyze your opponent's Art (skill & techniques) and Nature (personality & tendencies), the more effective we'll be in combat.
Rapier Voids for Lefty vs. Righty
If you're a left-handed historical fencer, don't discount body voids. Here are sample rapier voids for lefty vs. righty.
Simple Rapier Drill to Do with Minimal Space & No Sword
If you're lacking room at home, try this tennis ball fencing lunge drill. Perfect for historical fencers focused on rapier & smallsword.
Making Rapier Drills Better, Episode 1: The Wall Stabbing Drill
Stabbing a wall is a popular new rapier fencer drill, but it can be more useful by shifting the focus onto practicing measure.
Rapier Strength Exercise: Slow Motion Lunge
How slow can you lunge? This rapier exercise will test your muscular endurance and control as you lunge in slow motion.
Rapier Strength Exercise: The Static Lunge
The Static Lunge aka the Isometric Hold Lunge is a great rapier strength building & muscular endurance exercise.
LOST IN TRANSLATION: How Translation Differences in Alfieri’s ‘La Scherma’ Impact Martial Interpretation
It's easy for ideas or actions in historical fencing manuals to get lost in translation - literally. Here's how two Alfieri translations presents very different plays.
Revisiting Plate VIII of Alfieri’s ‘La Scherma’
Another fencer's interpretation on Alfieri's Plate 8.
A TALE OF TWO TRANSLATIONS: Looking at Chapter VIII of Alfieri’s ‘La Scherma’
At a recent SCA Arts & Science event, I demonstrated how two different Alfieri translations present very different play interpretations.