Welcome to HEMA

Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA)

HEMA is study an practice of historical European combat systems, reconstructed from medieval and Renaissance fighting manuals.

These manuscripts were written by Master swordsmen to train knights, soldiers, and noblemen in the use of weapons such as the longsword, arming sword, dagger, and polearms. 

At York HEMA, historical study is paired with physical conditioning and live resistance.

Our HEMA Trainings Includes:

Historical techniques translated from primary sources
hema practice
Footwork, timing, and distance management
Solo drills and skilled, partnered exercises
Structured sparring with increasing intensity
Conditioning tailored to weapon based combat
Structured sparring with increasing intensity

What is our goal?

With HEMA club, our goal is not just technical knowledge, but the ability to apply historical systems under pressure