QMUL Historical European Martial Arts The art and combat of sword-fighting
Want to learn how to swing and fight with swords just as people did back in the medieval times? HEMA (Historical European martial arts) is just that: the study of medieval manucripts and learning how people fought back in the day and using swords, spears and arms to best an opponent in combat. From the early shortsword and buckler of the 1300s up till the recent officer sabers in the gunpowder era, we cover a wide range of styles and techniques.
QM HEMA provides a space and community for you to try your hand at the epic art of swordfighting. We will equip you with all the weapons, armours and knowledge you need to embark on a swashbuckling journey. As a community of historical fencers, we also will provide easy access to external resources such as specialised smiths and instructors, so that you may pursue HEMA even outside of what we offer at Queen Mary's. We strongly recommend making use of these resources, especially for those who wish to take their swordsmanship to the next level.
Taster Sessions
We run a policy of considering your first session a taster session. Afterwards a membership is required to continue.
Training/Sessions
Our primary sessions take place at Qmotion Sports hall, every Monday from 3pm to 5pm. These are our offical times, for which we have access to the full Hall. If you cannot attend don't worry, as we have many unofficial sessions either in the sports hall or outside, including regular Saturday ones. Alternatively, purchasing a Get Active HEMA ticket will provide access to a 6-week focus course where we work on mastering the Longsword. Get Active classes run every Friday from 2pm-3pm, starting from the 4th of October. Get Active tickets are £12 for the semester and may be purchased from the Qmotion reception.
The membership includes all equipment needed (though there is an option if you want to use your own). This includes swords, protective equipment and everything else you may need, including a full year of sessions!
Competitions
We have this year begun to send out our more experienced members to national HEMA competitions!
We host in-club tournaments as well where you can test your skill against fellow club-members. These tournaments have small entrance fees that contribute to prizes for the champions.
Coaching and Teaching
The majority of our sessions will be run and taught by our dedicated committee members. On alternating Mondays, legendary historical fencer Jay Maxwell will come in to teach a 2 hour class on the use of the Spadone (greatsword), to augment and propel our capabilities with two-handed swords.
Affiliations
The Knight Shop Faits D'Armes Superior Fencing
Contact us with any questions you may have: