TRFA

 We are a club dedicated to the study of historical European martial arts, more commonly known as HEMA. Our focus is the study and use of the weapons and armor of the late Middle Ages and Renaissance Europe. We are based out of our school in South Norfolk (Norfolk/Chesapeake)

 

We have an academic and pressure testing approach. 

 

Our studies are based on the historical manuscripts that taught martial students how to fight with the weapons and armor of their time. In that way, our students are learning the same techniques as they did back in their heyday. Our primary manuscript is the written work of Joachim Meyer (1537-1571). However, this is not the only resource we use as some weapons and combat forms are covered in other texts from the masters of those weapons. 

 

We recognize that simply learning those techniques is not sufficient in understanding how they were used in a historical context. So, when students are ready, they proceed to sparring with their fellow members to see how what they have studied is applied in a true martial context. 

 

We also offer students the opportunity to compete in HEMA tournaments to test their skills against practitioners from other top schools around the country and even the world. 

 

Educational outreach

 

Part of our club’s charter is to provide education to our local community about European martial arts. To that end, we have partnered with local schools and libraries in our community to provide educational demonstrations of our skills and what we do to preserve these arts.

“How can I participate?”

 

We are glad you asked. We offer a first lesson free of charge to anyone who is interested in joining us. You don’t need any special equipment. Just come in comfortable clothes and be ready to jump right in. We provide the equipment you will need to participate in the lesson. After the lesson, we will explain how our membership dues work. If you have questions before you start, reach out to us via our Facebook page. 

 

F.A.Q. 

 

When do you Meet? 

 

Our practices are every Saturday from 6:15 to 9pm.   

 

What equipment will I need to spar with the club?

 

Your safety is of paramount importance to us. We will walk you through all the required gear to participate in sparring as you approach a level of ability where you are ready to spar. 

 

Where do I go to get all the cool gear?  

 

While there are several websites that sell HEMA gear, werecommend you refrain from purchasing anything before discussing it with us so we can recommend the best gear for you that will keep you safe, and work within your budget. 

 

I want to learn (Meser/Rapier/Greatsword/Spear/Pollaxe/Rondel Dagger)can I just start with that? 

 

While we do offer study in all the weapons listed above (and others), all students start with the study of the longsword. This will provide you with a common understanding of the fundamental techniques you will need to progress to other weapons. 

 

Will I get to fight in Armor? 

 

Our Harnischfechten (Armored HEMA) program is intended for our advanced students who already have a solid background of sparring without armor. Any student can get to a point where the Harnischfechten program is open to them, but especially as it is a once a month activity within the club, all of our armored students study their unarmored skills and progress to using armor if they want. However, you are not required to learn Harnischfechten, and can just focus your studies to unarmored HEMA (Blossfechten) 

 

I already have a gambeson/armor/sword from SCA/LARP/Renfaire. Can I use that to fight in? 

 

To ensure your safety, we require that all equipment meet certain safety standards. Most gear from such activities often does not meet that standard. However, we are open to looking at your gear and seeing if it meets our safety standards.