We practice a modern form of training based on Swedish military saber where we work from the Swedish manual ”Instruktioner i sabelfäktning till fots” written in 1893. It is a relatively modern manual in the context of HEMA, which means that the manual is easier to interpret and the training is more similar to modern competitive fighting styles than our other weapons.
The course
We practice saber on Mondays from 19:00 to 21:00 where the last half hour is set aside for different forms of sparring depending on what equipment you have.
Equipment and knowledge requirements
For beginners there are no equipment or knowledge requirements other than training shoes for indoor use and training clothes. However, we encourage all beginners to get their own saber and their own equipment for the level you want to train for as soon as possible. Talk to your coach if you want to start sparring.
To spar with foam sabers, you need the following equipment:
- Some kind of lighter gloves
- Fencing mask with neck protection
- Throat protection
- Jockstrap (for those who need it during competition)
For sparring with steel sabers, full equipment is required.
Read more about equipment here!
The vision for the group
We primarily train HEMA because we think it’s fun and because swords in all their forms are one of the most beautiful training tools we can imagine. We are driven by learning to handle these implements the way they were meant to be handled, as far as it goes within the confines of a safe modern martial art.
We want to create a workout with something for most people. Whether you just want to move once a week or you want to train to compete. Our ambition is that everyone should get something out of each training session and feel motivated to be able to develop as a fencer. Having said that, the training is designed with the goal of you being able to compete, but you choose which level you want and can train at.
Practical application
Unlike most military saber systems, the saber blade in the manual we follow is completely straight. This means that techniques are adapted for it, which can make some training sabers difficult to use. The modern standard saber used in most tournaments is slightly curved at the front. Even so, it works well for our training, although a straight saber would have been preferable.
Completely in line with the manual, we hold a training where we learn to handle the saber with both the right and left hand. Originally this was done so that the soldier could continue fighting even if he injured his dominant hand. Our motivation is primarily that we want to create a balanced workout and avoid injuries as a result of mistrained muscles.