historical European martial arts

Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) are the reconstructed combat techniques and weapons training used by Europeans from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance, based on surviving manuscripts, treatises, and armor. Practitioners study the weapons and fighting styles of knights, swordsmen, and other martial practitioners, aiming to understand and revive authentic historical techniques. HEMA involves rigorous training, scholarly research, and sparring, emphasizing safety, precision, and respect for historical context. It provides insight into medieval combat, martial culture, and the development of European warfare from centuries past.