KDF Broadstairs is a German Longsword HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) Group is based in Broadstairs, Thanet. We practice under the banner of the KDF (Kunst des Fechtens – Art of Fighting) group who had a number of Fechtschule (Fight schools) under their banner. We are the only one in East Kent.
We practice every Tuesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
The KDF practice Longsword under the documentary evidence provided by master Johannes Liechtenauer, as well as other weapons from circa 1300 to 1600. Our initial practice is Longsword but there is enough in the German medieval martial arts system to add in Langes Messer, Sword and Buckler, Dussack, Dagger, Polearms, Ringen (Wrestling) and Quarterstaff.
If this is of interest and you are over 18 please connect with us on Facebook to stay in touch. Due the the nature of this practice we can only accept students over the age of 18.
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Please feel free to connect with us on Facebook – this is where we will post any changes to training times
https://www.facebook.com/thanetfechtschule/
We have a second group that opened up in Canterbury in January 2019 (Canterbury Medieval Combat) – We have a separate Facebook page for that
https://www.facebook.com/canterburymedcom/
What is HEMA?
HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) is a collective set of documents which outline martial arts techniques used in Europe from the Middle Ages. There are manuscripts in Germany, Italy, Spain, England, and Portugal.
There are a large number of different manuscripts (systems) people can follow. HEMA offers something for everyone on that there are research opportunities, studying and trying to decipher the techniques, the application of those techniques in a training situation – normally paired, as well as a codified method of practicing in a free play structure (sport, point scoring). While these can look very different, we do welcome anyone who wishes to study at which ever level suits them.
How to start HEMA
Currently we have an open door policy which means you can simply let us know when you want to come and you can attend.