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Classes and Training
There are two basic ways people learn how to fence in Carolingia: formal classes and individual instruction. Both methods are free and depend on the availability of teachers and motivation of students.
Beginner Classes
These classes happen twice a year: once in the fall, and once in the spring. They run for 8 consecutive weeks at the same time and place as our general Sunday practice. The classes are intended to build the foundation of body mechanics and bladework upon which fencing is built. Lessons include footwork, parries, attacks, feints, off-hand techniques, and more. Some fencers are ready to authorize (become certified to fence at SCA events) by the end of it, while others need more practice and instruction. We have a number of teachers and teaching assistants who donate their time to the program; we try to rotate them through so they still get time to practice their own fencing. See our Rapier 101 Syllabus for our current approach to these classes.
Intermediate/Advanced Classes
These occur on an ad-hoc basis whenever students express an interest in learning a specific topic beyond basic single rapier. They are generally announced in advance on the rapier mailing list and usually last only a single session. Recent topics include intro to heavy rapier, dagger, buckler, and timing.
Mentorship
We encourage new to seek out more experienced people from which to learn one-on-one. This allows the student and teacher to tailor the program to the student's needs and desires. Fencers who are willing to be mentors should make this clear at practice, as should students who are looking for mentors to adopt them.
Other East Kingdom Practices
If you are travelling in the East Kingdom, and want to find a fencing
practice, a list is being maintained on the East
Kingdom fencing web page.
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