So is HEMA like reenactment or LARP?

Unlike reenactment or live action roleplay, HEMA does not seek to recreate or simulate a particular moment in history, nor do practitioners dress-up and assume fictional personas.  HEMA focuses on the martial aspects of history, particularly the techniques and tactics used to defend oneself with a sword or other weapon. Although HEMA techniques are rooted in historical documents, they are practiced using modern equipment and training methods.  While the study and practice of HEMA can be used to enhance or provide further historical accuracy to Reenactment and/or LARPing, such activities are not the focus of San Diego Swordfighters.

Are those real swords?

San Diego Swordfighters uses a variety of blunt training weapons made from wood, synthetic materials, or steel.  Our training weapons are designed to simulate the handling of a real sword as closely as possible while still being safe enough to use with a partner without risk of serious injury.  Sharp steel weapons are reserved for advanced students for cutting against targets in a controlled setting.

Is it safe?

Like all martial arts, HEMA carries with it the risk of injury.  Practitioners and students assume those risks, however, we take every precaution to prevent injury by enforcing strict safety standards and ensure that all students are provided with appropriate safety gear and work within their capabilities.  While the occasional bump or bruise is to be expected, serious injuries are very rare.

How can I start?!

We encourage new members to join us at one of our Basics and Fundamentals classes held the first session of every month (see our Schedule Page for more info). These classes are an overview of the basic guards, footwork and attacks of the fencing system being studied for less experienced members to pick up the basics and better understand follow up lessons given through the rest of the month. No experience necessary, all you need is a positive attitude and determination to work hard and learn diligently. Please join our mailing list below and/or contact info@sdswordfighters.com if you are looking to start your HEMA journey with us.

What should I bring?

Loaner training swords are available to new students to use in class. If you happen to have your own HEMA or fencing gear, by all means bring it, but there is no gear requirement for participation. If you are just starting out, a water bottle, clothes you can easily move and sweat in, and a positive attitude to learn are all that are required.

What should I buy?

We don’t recommend purchasing any HEMA/fencing gear or training weapons before talking to us first.  Gear can be expensive and, if not from a reputable HEMA supplier, can be unsafe or not appropriate to how we train.  Talk to us, and we can hook you up with the best options and perhaps even be able to arrange a deal to save money.

How much does it cost?

San Diego Swordfighters is a nonprofit organization, however we still require monthly contributions from our members in order to pay for insurance, equipment and other training materials. In order to make HEMA accessible to everyone, contributions are based on a “pay what you can” model. After your free trial month, your monthly contributions should be based on what you are personally willing to pay for a “fun night out” (i.e. a nice dinner with drinks, or a trip to the movies with snacks). Contributions of $20-50/month ($35 being the suggested amount) are appreciated. Acquiring gear can also be expensive so monthly contributions can be deferred to help offset the price of purchasing your personal fencing equipment.

Who even is this guy?

Hi! I’m Alan West, lead instructor and founder of San Diego Swordfighters!  I have been studying martial arts in some form since I was 8 years old.  I have a black belt in Kempo Karate, and have trained in Kung Fu, Ju-jitsu, and FMA, before discovering HEMA in 2012.  Ever since then, I have been poring over historical manuscripts, sparring, competing and attending seminars to learn as much as I can about historical swordplay.  I am excited to have the chance to share what I have learned to new 21st century swordfighters.  When I am not swashbuckling on nights and weekends, I work as a biochemist in the local biotech industry.  Science is awesome, but it’s nowhere near as exciting as swordfighting! I hope to cross swords with you soon.