Welcome to the Hotspur School of Defense!

Philosophy of the School

Training at the HSD largely follows the methodologies laid down in historical texts, with an emphasis on achieving a solid grounding in the basic footwork and body mechanics before techniques are applied.

Scholars will strive to develop the ideal mindset necessary for facing the deadly assault, as espoused by the historical masters, treating each training session as though preparing to face a serious encounter with sharps.

The four fundamental virtues of fencing will form the basis for all weapons studied at the School, viz:

JUDGEMENT - COURAGE - SPEED - FORTITUDE

Fencing is an art, and like any art it takes time and patience to develop any degree of competence. The ultimate goal of HSD scholars will be to develop and exercise complete control over themselves and their weapons at all times.

Scholars will work towards a point where they would be able to fence safely at full speed with no more protection than a pair of gauntlets.

In all other circumstances scholars will be expected to train with adequate safety equipment at all times, namely an FIE-regulation 1600N fencing mask, a suitable jacket and plastron, and sufficiently stout gauntlets. Heavier arms may require an added degree of protection, such as padded gambesons or arming jacks, at the discretion of the Marshal of the School.

Scholars will aim to achieve a firm understanding of the character of each weapon, based on the necessary historical sources. More advanced scholars will be encouraged to undertake further research to broaden their own understanding of Western martial heritage.