Basic Western European Swordsmanship

Basic Swordsmanship starts with fundamentals: posture, stance, balance and poise. Students begin consciously observing the world around them, taking notice and giving thought to their surroundings and people they come in contact with. They become more aware of their own bodies and their movement becomes more purposeful than haphazard. The concept of ki or energy flow universal to most martial arts is introduced. One week of class is spent learning basic first aid: one of our principles is “know how to fix what you break”.

As the class progresses, students learn offense and defense with the basic sword and shield movements. Emphasis is placed on training both sides of the body so that students will be effective regardless of which hand they use. They participate in tag drills to improve teamwork and coordination. By the end of Basic, students will have gained the necessary strength, endurance and physical control to spar with their classmates.

On entering Aegis Academy of Swordsmanship as Basic students, new swordsmen form the team they will work with throughout their studies: their sword-brothers and sisters. Each class chooses a name and creates a banner that constitutes their identity as a class and fighting unit.

At the end of Basic students will participate in a commencement ceremony and their families and friends can watch their first tournament!

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