FAQ
How do I get started?
If you are interested in in Adult or Youth classes:
Where does class take place?
We are located at the Old Oxford Athletic Center. 7588 Delaware Ln, Vancouver, WA, 98664. Cross Streets are Garrison Rd and Mill Plain Blvd. Go through the 1st Glass door(suite 104) on the Delaware side of the building. Family and youth class is down the hall through the brown wood door in the turf room.
What should I bring to class?
Be prepared for some running and body weight exercise as part of the curriculum. Bring water and athletic attire including active shoes. We discourage jeans and boots. Shorts are acceptable attire. Adult sessions include sparring. We split class with skill drills and sparring. All new students should fill out our easy Registry form before class. We can assist if you need help with this process. Contact us for arrangements.
Is the adult class HEMA?
Adult classes are centered on training and nomenclature from manuscripts left by historic sword masters. We study these techniques as presented by modern translations and use training swords and safety equipment as generally practiced in the HEMA community.
What is MSF?
The mission of the International Federation of MSF is to promote Modern Sword Fighting and other kinds of medieval martial art with the sword and other weapons in a safe, accessible and interactive form among children, teenagers and adults all across the world. The federation is above all aimed at providing education to the young generation in the spirit of love and interest to study the history and traditions of their countries and lead healthy lifestyle, be courageous and noble. www.ifmsf.com
Are Adult and Youth Classes taught together?
Adults having no enrolled children in the MSF youth program are focused toward the HEMA programs. Parents are encouraged to sign up with their kids in the youth MSF program if they wish to be involved to a greater degree. Its amazing how family bonds strengthen in this atmosphere. Getting fit and sharing common adventures is a wonderful experience.
Why use soft gear?
Soft gear is a fantastic way to ensure the safety of kids and youth while introducing them to the sword arts. The margin of safety afforded by using soft gear means we can explore more sporting elements, multiple opponents, and team oriented sparring in a forgiving sand box framework suited for how the human brain intuitively learns lessons. This make MSF unique and powerful as not only an effective method to teach young people, but also adults who wish to experiment with new elements of the fighting arts. In addition soft gear is great in many fitness applications as we can focus control on the body and not so much on the weapon in order to prevent injury.
Have a different question? Please send us an email at nathan@bladefitacademy.com