Longsword Training: The Krump

Wow, I completely neglected this blog! I'm going to try and start blogging after training sessions, making it a good 'post-practice review' habit.

So I met with Arnold on this fine 40 degree Saturday, and we drove to Lake Cayuga to practice some longsword techniques with our western-modified shinai (practice katanas). We've been experimenting with the Krump technique for both overhand and underhand movements. In addition, we have been trying some grappling techniques, which are performed while holding the sword by both the handle and the upper part of blade (it is assumed that gauntlets are worn in traditional combat, preventing hand injury).

We'll be (hopefully!) meeting every morning this week to work out at the gym and get our lazy selves back into shape. Arnold has a good workout for us; running, stretching, core work, and then beginning whatever workout we want to do for the day. It's going to kick our butts at first, but we should get into prime condition before summer is upon us. Gotta look good for the ladies ;)

Welcome to the Advent Guarde

I'll be posting links and information about martial arts techniques, swords and weapons, basic survival information, practical preparation kits, and maybe some awesome anime here or there.

To get us started, here's a link to ARMA's research and reading list. The Association for Renaissance Martial Arts has some fantastic resources for anyone interested in learned western martial arts. I'm currently studying plates for rapier and longsword, and they have some great visual references of the combat moves.