HISTORICAL FENCING

MASTERY TAKES MORE THAN JUST SHOWING UP TO PRACTICE

The Warrior's Way

Being and staying at the top of your game isn't about being a certain height, having a special inborn talent, or using fancier equipment.

The truth is, professional athletes have a team of staff supporting them - skill coaches, body workers, athletic trainers, nutritionists, strength & conditioning coaches, and more. These people are responsible for helping the athlete maintain their mind and body so they can perform at their highest level when it counts.

A 15th century knight wasn't so different in this regard - as elite professional warriors they relied on the help of others to get in and out of their armor, care for their horse, prepare their equipment and keep them fed and rested. In turn, they dedicated time to train and maintain their mind and body to be ready for their job on the battlefield.

The famous master of arms Pietro Monte advocated running, rock throwing, horse vaulting and climbing in armor to prepare for combat.

Exercitiorum Atque Artis Militaris Collectanea (1509)

Today's Historical Fencer

Now we have the benefit of modern exercise science. We are able to use our understanding of human physiology and psychology to get the most out of our training, and we use recovery strategies and intelligent programming to keep us enjoying our sports and hobbies at a high level for as long as possible.

If you have big goals like being fit enough to fight in armor, seeing more consistent placements in competition or even just avoiding yet another overuse injury, consider working with a conditioning coach who can help you train, thrive, and transform for your big HEMA goals.

What's Your Goal?

THE COMPETITOR

A fencer competing multiple times per year, working to master an elite mindset, peak conditioning and performing consistently under pressure when it counts.

FOCUS: Conditioning for explosive power, mental performance skills, goalsetting

THE HEALTHY FENCER

Health-Minded indivdual looking to make lifestyle changes and develop a solid training regimen to lose weight, become more agile, and fence at a higher level.

FOCUS: Aerobic fitness, nutrition, general conditioning

THE ATHLETE-IN-TRAINING

Aspiring A-Tier athlete wanting to learn how to train their body to handle higher intensity training and stay injury-free

FOCUS: Program Development, Conditioning & Recovery

THE COACH

Coaches looking to help all types of fencers develop the training, recovery, and mindset skills to thrive in their historical fencing program

Skills Focus: Program Development, Fencer Wellness, Injury Prevention

The Complete Fencer

THE SPREZZATURA FIVE FOCI

5 Pillars of Conditioning & Performance for HEMA Fencers:

Programming. The what, when, and how of training, which should match your abilities, goals, and competition cycle.
Movement. Your speed, power, and metabolic fitness. Moving like an athlete from the first step to the last on the piste.
Mobility and Stability. Avoiding movement patterns that put joints at risk by maximizing your body's range of motion & the stabilizing muscles that keep them strong.
Mental Performance. Greater focus and awareness, emotional regulation, and tools for an elite mindset.
Recovery. Taking care of your body with high quality sleep, nutrition, and other habits that help you bounce back faster.