Beginner Longsword — Ages 18+
Learn the fundamentals of historical longsword — no experience required.
The Beginner Longsword class is the perfect entry point into historical European martial arts at BladeFit Academy. Students learn guards, cuts, thrusts, and striking mechanics rooted in the German longsword tradition using custom-adapted wooden shinai fitted with a cross guard unique to BladeFit. Classes focus on foundational mechanics, partner drills, and coached sparring in a supportive environment. Loaner gear is available to get started right away — no prior experience needed.
Class details
- Class name: Beginner Longsword
- Program: Adult program
- Ages: Ages 18+
- Skill level: Beginner — no experience required
- Prerequisites: No prior experience required. Students must be 18 or older.
- Day and time: Wednesdays 7:15 PM – 8:45 PM
- Time zone: Pacific (America/Los_Angeles)
- Location: 7588 Delaware Lane, Vancouver, WA 98684
- Status: Currently running
- Trial: $5 one-time trial class, loaner gear provided
- Membership: covered by any BladeFit Academy membership or punch card
- Booking: https://bladefit-academy.gymdesk.com/signup/v/DLy7q
Why we train this
The longsword is the most complete weapon system in HEMA. Our beginner curriculum is grounded in the medieval Liechtenauer tradition, drawing from principles preserved in historical treatises and brought to life through modern coaching. Training develops distance management, timing, body mechanics, and martial decision-making — building the foundation for everything else in HEMA.
Historic roots
Our longsword curriculum is rooted in the medieval German tradition of Johannes Liechtenauer, whose verse treatise — the Zettel — became the foundation of an entire lineage of swordsmanship spanning the 14th through 16th centuries. Liechtenauer's system emphasizes efficient movement, initiative (Vor), and the seamless integration of cuts, thrusts, and wrestling into a unified fighting art. His teachings were passed down and expanded by masters such as Sigmund Ringeck, Peter von Danzig, and Hans Talhoffer, creating one of the most well-documented martial traditions in European history.
Required and recommended equipment
Loaner equipment is available for trial classes and for new students.
- Athletic clothing
- Indoor athletic shoes
- Fencing mask (loaner available — first-come, first-served, limited)
- Chest protector (loaner available — first-come, first-served, limited)
- Shinai (with cross guard)
Trial policy
Every BladeFit Academy program uses the same trial policy: a one-time $5 paid trial class. Loaner gear is provided for the trial, so nothing needs to be purchased in advance.
Applies to: All youth and adult programs, including Cubs Club.
Contact and location
- BladeFit Academy, 7588 Delaware Lane, Vancouver, WA 98684
- Phone: (360) 207-0252
- Email: lisa@bladefitacademy.com
- Some youth classes meet outdoors at Leroy Haagen Memorial Park, Vancouver, WA
About BladeFit Academy
BladeFit Academy teaches Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), swordsmanship, movement, and fitness to youth and adults in Vancouver, Washington.
BladeFit Academy, 7588 Delaware Lane, Vancouver, WA 98684. (360) 207-0252. lisa@bladefitacademy.com.Content last updated 2026-07-30.