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.