Classes and Instruction
We offer individual instruction and a number of group classes throughout the season. For more information about each, see below.
To inquire about instruction with the Club, please fill out the following form: Fencing Instruction Contact Form
Note that our environment is adult oriented (with considerations for maturity and weapon forms practiced, usually high school and above).
For younger students, please contact us for options: : Fencing Instruction Contact Form
Quick links to descriptions:
- Group Classes
- Individual Instruction
- Special Classes
Group classes are most suited for introductory and beginning fencing. For more advanced work, Individual Instruction works best. However, depending on the demand or interest, we may offer group intermediate and/or historical weapon classes. Example class descriptions follow.
New people, please contact us via: Fencing Instruction Contact Form.
Beginner/Introduction to Fencing, Modern and HistoricalWant to learn to fence? Always dreamed of sword fighting? Our beginner class introduces you to fencing both historical and modern! This nine-week class will cover the basics of modern fencing with foils and sabers, then transition into historical weapons with longsword. The goal of this class is to build a foundation of fencing skills that will allow you to begin to participate in club practices and set you up to continue learning in either further group classes or with individual lessons as you decide what your goals are. We will teach you to fence safely, with skill, and most of all how to have a lot of fun! Loaner gear and weapons will be provided by the club.
The class typically meets for an hour one day a week for 9 consecutive weeks
- Next Session: TBD
- Typical Fee: $180 (There will be an additional $20 deposit for a loaner fencing jacket that will be refunded on its return)
Longsword is the most common weapon fenced in modern HEMA and, in the case of Meyer's 16th century "Art of Combat", it is the first weapon taught and it forms the basis of Meyer's entire system.
For those new to fencing or with little experience in Longsword, this class introduces footwork, balance, leverage, weapon handling, tactics & strategy.
- Future sessions: TBD
- Typical Fee: TBD
Military Sabre is a fairly vague term that doesn't account for the variety of European styles and approaches. The breadth of styles requires us to focus on a portion of what's out there, as there is no comprehensive system. These classes will focus on Russ Mitchell's book, Hungarian Hussar Sabre and Fokos Fencing, which is often an easy recommendation for people interested in Eastern European styles of Sabre. With the book as our guide, we'll approach the basics of Hungarian Sabre through various exercises, games, and plays.
Synthetic and foam sabres will be used extensively during the classes so dress accordingly. Also, feel free to gear up if you want to use steel.
The class typically meets 6:30-7:30 one day a week for 4 consecutive weeks
- Future Sessions: TBD
- Fee: $80 (free for season members)
This class is for graduates of our Intro to Longsword class, those who have taken individual lessons, or experienced club members who want to continue working on their longsword skills in a structured class environment. We will work on footwork, body mechanics, bladework and other skills through drills, games, and controlled sparring. This class is great preparation for those looking to start participating in competition or sparring in and out of the club. Fencers will need masks, gloves, and jackets at a minimum for drills and will need heavy protective gear including heavy gloves, back of the head protection, gorgets, padded jackets, and chest or groin protectors if they wish to participate in full speed sparring. Some club loaner gear is available, but please make arrangements in advance as our supplies are limited. We will be working with nylon and steel weapons. You may bring your own or borrow a club weapon.
The class typically meets 6:30-7:30 one day a week for 3 consecutive weeks
- Session Dates: TBD
- Fee: $60 (free for members)
For those new or relatively new to fencing this class introduces footwork, balance, leverage, weapon handling, tactics & strategy. The focus will be on modern foil fencing and may include a bit of modern sabre.
Note for those who wish to learn historical fencing but have little or no fencing experience, this class is a good way to start.
The class typically meets one day a week for 5 consecutive weekss
- Future sessions: TBD
- Typical Fee: typically $100
For those who have completed our Introduction to Fencing class or equivalent, this class expands on the study of modern foil fencing and may include elements of modern sabre.
The class typically meets one day a week for 3 consecutive weeks
- Future sessions: TBD
- Typical Fee: $60
Individual lessons are an excellent way to start and make rapid progress. For people new to fencing, we usually start with modern foil, even if one's goal is to practice historical fencing - it's a great way to teach the basics. Individual lessons are also an ideal way to work on more advanced topics or get introduced to different weapons.
New people, please contact us via: Fencing Instruction Contact Form.
First lesson is free, succeeding lessons are $35 ($20 with season membership).
How many lessons do you need? - There is no set number. Many people can start practicing foil after their first lesson but greater skill and personal satisfaction will take additional work. After gaining basic competency and the safe handling of at least one weapon, you may choose to take a break from lessons but if you wish to be successful in tournaments or achieve a higher level of the art, additional instruction will certainly help.
We may schedule single evening special classes and workshops to introduce specific weapon/weapon forms or to explore more deeply into various topics. They are open to anyone who meets the particular classes prerequisites but participation preference is given to existing members. Information on planned classes, their requirements and any fees are published to our mailing list.
For more information, contact us at: info@annarborsword.com