Training locations and times
MARS provides training in Groningen and Zwolle. Groningen is the oldest location of the association and therefore currently offers the most options. With the exception of holidays, the summer holidays and the Christmas holidays, MARS provides training every week at both locations. The regular training season of MARS runs from September to June. In the summer, open training sessions take place weekly, where everyone can practice techniques or spar.
Training
The fighting styles practiced at MARS have been extensively documented by historical masters from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In particular, the works of German sword masters in the tradition of Johannes Liechtenauer are studied and taught at MARS. More information about the historical sources used can be found at Wiktenauer .
Disciplines at MARS
Longsword
The most practiced discipline within MARS is fighting with the longsword. Using the “ Zedel ”, the well-known didactic poem by Johannes Liechtenauer and the explanation of it by Sigmund ain Ringeck, we try to breathe new life into the age-old techniques. Liechtenauer mentions four leger (positions), five different strokes and a number of additional techniques in his work. These are all taught in the longsword lessons of MARS in Groningen and Zwolle.
Sword and Buckler
A buckler is a small fist shield, which was used in the Middle Ages in combination with a one-handed sword. The oldest fechtbuch we know, Royal Armouries Ms. I.33 from ca. 1320, is entirely about sword and buckler. A number of techniques from this manuscript are applied in the sword and buckler lessons at MARS. The focus of the curriculum, however, lies with the work of Andre Lignitzer, another sword master from the Liechtenauer tradition.
Other disciplines
During the long sword lessons in Groningen and Zwolle, unarmed techniques are also discussed, so-called ringen. In addition, there is occasional training with the medieval rondel dagger. During the open training sessions at both locations, there is an opportunity to study and practice other weapons and fighting styles, such as sabre, sidesword, sickle, spear and other pole weapons. In addition, a Rapier study group has been active in Groningen for some time.
Other disciplines
During the long sword lessons in Groningen and Zwolle, unarmed techniques are also discussed, so-called ringen. In addition, there is occasional training with the medieval rondel dagger. During the open training sessions at both locations, there is an opportunity to study and practice other weapons and fighting styles, such as sabre, sidesword, sickle, spear and other pole weapons. In addition, a Rapier study group has been active in Groningen for some time.
Weapons and Gear
In a contact sport there is always the risk of getting injured. This is also the case with sword fighting. Participation in MARS training is always at your own risk. In order to minimize this risk, MARS has drawn up rules of conduct. These can be found in the House Rules and the Equipment and Safety Regulations. In addition, wearing sufficient protection is always mandatory.
For the beginners group, wearing a toque/cup is mandatory for men at all times (and recommended for women). Without a toque, you (as a man) are unfortunately not allowed to participate. During most exercises with longsword or sword and buckler, a fencing mask, throat protector and gloves are mandatory. MARS has these available on loan for people who are taking a trial lesson or have only just become members. However, you must have purchased them yourself within two months of becoming a member. This also applies to a MARS t-shirt.
If you want to train with steel weapons or spar at full speed, you will need more protection. This includes a protective overlay for your mask, a fencing jacket, elbow and forearm protectors, fencing pants, knee and shin guards, etc. All in all, this is quite expensive. Sword fighting is definitely not a cheap sport. It is good to realize this before you start.
Tip: as a MARS member you get 10% discount on individual items at webshop Faits d'Armes with the code MARS-SWORDFIGHTING. Would you rather try it on first? Then go to the Zwaard en Volk store in Tilburg.
Different Levels
You won’t learn sword fighting in one day. MARS knows different levels of experience and skill, based on the ranks of medieval and renaissance sword fighting schools.
Beginner
In the Beginner groups, basic skills of the historical martial arts are taught, with general attacks and defenses, and training safety, such as learning how to fall safely.
One level higher, the Recruit groups focus on the key techniques of the style, and there is hard training to master the techniques.
Recruit
The Scoliers delve deeper into the historical sources to better master the course material.
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Broadening and deepening both the main curriculum and other weapons and styles are central to the work of the Free-Scoliers and Provosts.
Scolier
Free-Scholier
Provost
Groningen
Tuesday
8:00-9:30 PM Sword & Buckler
8:00-9:30 PM Study Groups
21:30-22:30 Spar training
Location: Gym Goudlaan
Thursday
7:00-8:30 PM Longsword Beginners
8:30-10:00 PM Longsword Recruits
Location: Eikenlaan 286, (entrance Sleedoornpad)
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Saturday - every other week
10.00-12.00 hrs Open training
Location: Gym Goudlaan
Zwolle
Monday
8:00-10:00 PM Longsword Beginners + Recruits
Location: Campus 2-6, building S, room 8 .
Thursday
8:00-10:00 PM Study groups and sparring training
Location: Campus 2-6, building S, room 8.