historical European martial arts
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) refers to the study and practice of martial arts techniques from Europe, primarily from the late Middle Ages to the early modern period. These techniques are often derived from manuals written by masters such as Johannes Liechtenauer and Fiore dei Liberi, which detail various weapons and combat styles, including swordsmanship, grappling, and polearms.
HEMA practitioners aim to reconstruct these historical techniques through research, training, and sparring. The focus is on understanding the principles and strategies of combat as they were taught in the past, allowing modern enthusiasts to connect with their martial heritage and preserve these traditional skills.