The AHF exists to pursue the study and practice of historical swordsmanship as both a martial art and as a sport. It is not run for commercial gain. The Instructors are not paid but dedicate significant time to researching documented historical forms of swordsmanship to be able to teach a new generation of swordfighters. A lot of work goes in to the research, teaching and training. But ultimately, the most important thing is to have fun. We spar a lot. So, if you’d like to learn historical sword based martial arts, and have fun fighting others with what you have learned, the AHF is for you.
HOW DO I JOIN?
We take new members all year round and all are welcome. Our only exception is our minimum age requirement. You have to be 18 years or older.
The start of one of the two-month blocks is the best time to begin as it will be very beginner friendly, but that said, you might as well show up any time and just get stuck in, as many often do.
You don’t need anything for your first session, though if you own a fencing mask, bring that. Just wear comfy clothing and trainers. We carry plenty of spare training swords to get you going and the only thing which is a priority to buy is a fencing mask, but not needed for the first session.
FEES
Your first session is £10 (see our FEES section on how and when to pay), or you can pay for the month for £20. After your first session you must fill out the membership form on the website and pay the annual membership fee (which includes insurance). Renewal is always on 1st January, no matter when you first paid. You will be unable to fully participate in drills and sparring until you are a member of the AHF.
TRAINING DAYS
The AHF trains all year round at our two schools. We also host a quarterly Saturday sparring day in Chepstow, where both schools get together for sparring. See the EVENTS page for details. It is also open to other HEMA clubs.
WHAT HAPPENS IN A SESSION?
Sessions always begin with a fun warm up game. The first half of a session is lesson time, which everyone participates in. The second half is always for sparring. We teach a particular weapon form or style for approximately two months before moving on to another. You can start anytime during that training block. Everyone trains that system during drills, but in sparring you may use any weapons you like, so long as they meet club safety standards.
YOUR INSTRUCTORS
The AHF is run by the Thomas Brothers, founders of the AHF in 2006 and experienced fencers since the 1990s. Both have a wide breadth of knowledge and experience across a variety of weapons and systems. We teach and train with longsword, rapier, sabre, and sword & buckler, with an emphasis on British, German and Italian traditions. Nick specialises in Italian rapier from Capo Ferro and British military sabre, broadsword, smallsword, and spadroon from Roworth, while Michael’s focus is 16th century longsword, dussack, and sidesword from Joachim Meyer. The Thomas Brothers run both schools, with classes taking place every week of the year.