Longsword

Based on Joachim Meyer's book “A detailed description of the free, chivalrous and noble art of fencing” this course is modified by RAVEH to improve and modernize the teaching and to expand concepts, techniques and tactics of the use of this sword.

Enter the realm of the Longsword, a weapon that embodies honor, courage and precision on both the battlefield and the dueling field. Through the teachings of Joachim Meyer, this course explores the methods and techniques that shaped 16th-century longsword combat. Master cuts, guards, complex diagrams and discover the legacy of this weapon.

About the master

Master Joachim Meyer was a German Renaissance swordsman who wrote one of the oldest and most complete fencing manuals that has survived to this day. In his treatise, Meyer provides detailed instructions on the use of the longsword, a weapon immensely popular during the Renaissance, as well as the use of the dussack, rapier, daggers, polearms, and combat in armor.

Meyer's teachings on the long sword are based on the principle of efficient movement. He believed that the key to success in fencing was to make the most efficient use of the body and avoid wasting energy. Meyer's Fencing Manual provides clear, concise instructions on how to perform all basic fencing techniques, from simple parries and lunges to more complex maneuvers.

Meyer's treatise also includes a section on the psychological aspects of fencing. In this section, Meyer emphasizes the importance of staying calm and focused during a fight, as well as the need to maintain a positive attitude. He also provides advice on how to deal with an opponent who is stronger or faster than yourself.

About the sword

The longsword is a type of European sword used during the Renaissance period. These swords have long cruciform hilts with grips over 10 to 15 inches long, providing room for two hands. All parts of the sword are used for offensive purposes, including the pommel and cross guard. A powerful and versatile weapon, the longsword is used for cutting and stabbing. The blade of the sword is straight and predominantly double-edged. The blades differ considerably in cross section as well as length and width.

DISCLAIMER

At the Royal Venezuelan Academy of Historical Fencing, we are passionate about preserving and teaching the art of fencing, including the longsword techniques from the legacy of Joachim Meyer. We believe in maintaining the essence of this traditional discipline while adapting it to modern learning styles and safety standards.

We have taken steps to ensure that our teaching methods prioritize safety without compromising the integrity of the art. This includes the integration of modern protective equipment and refined training techniques. Our modernized approach aims to improve the overall effectiveness of your training. By incorporating contemporary teaching methods, we strive to make the art of saber fencing more accessible and relevant to today's enthusiasts.

While we have introduced some modern elements, we remain committed to honoring Joachim Meyer's legacy. Our instructors are well versed in the historical context and original techniques, ensuring that the essence of the art is preserved.

We understand that different professionals may have different preferences and opinions on this. For this reason, we will inform you about the positive and negative aspects.

• Modernizing teaching methods can make the discipline more accessible to a broader audience. This may attract more people to participate in historical fencing and preserve this art form.

• Updating techniques for modern practices can improve security measures. By integrating protective equipment and perfecting training methods, the risk of injury can be reduced.

• Incorporating modern teaching methods can improve the overall effectiveness of training. This can lead to better retention and understanding of techniques and ultimately make practitioners more skilled.

• Adapting the method to modern society can help maintain relevance. It ensures that the art form remains applicable and attractive to contemporary audiences.

• Critics may argue that the modification of the method deviates from Joachim Meyer's original intention and style. This may raise concerns about historical accuracy and the preservation of traditional techniques.

• Altering the method could potentially dilute the historical integrity of the art. Some purists may argue that staying true to the original method is crucial to preserving its historical value.

• There may be debates within the HEMA community about the merits of modernizing teaching methods. This could cause divisions or disagreements among professionals.

• A technical summary of the method could result in the loss of the unique legacy associated with Joachim Meyer. It could be more difficult to track the evolution of the art if significant modifications are made.