This workshop, divided in two parts, will present an overview of plays from Fiore de‘ Liberi covering the complex system of different interaction of longsword fencers with their unfriendly surrounding.

The trainees will experience techniques from increasingly closer measure, starting from a spear throw going through „Zogo Largo“, „Zogo Stretto“ and ending in a good old dirty „Abbrazare“.
The first part of the workshop will follow the wider distance actions, while the second the close distance actions.

Yes, it is bad to kick someone in the groin, but as Fiore said, we must learn it so we know what not to do. (please bring a groin protection)

Protection required:

• Masks and gloves and groin protection (!) are minimum protections required for the low speed application of the techniques.
• Jacket, mask cover and throat protection are required for higher intensity practice (which is no obligated and is left to the choice of the participant).

Toys:

• personal longsword
• a stick the length of your sword or a similar simulator for a sword scabbard (an old broom stick will be enough)
• a stick or a simulator for a rondel dagger. (we’ll provide some, so don’t worry if you don’t have it)

Meyer is Majestic – an overview of the the method and mechanics for Joachim Meyer’s Longsword from the Art Of Combat, 1570, and a primer on Fechtschule style play and competition in the 16th century guilds.

The workshop will look at how the body mechanics and context of this style of fencing were used for athletic exercise and public demonstration as well as for martial efficacy, using a selection of Jonathan’s favourite plays and techniques from the source material.

Prepare to get HUGE.