“You fight like a girl!” What, like that’s supposed to be a bad thing?

If you thought sword fighting was just for the guys, think again! Join us at Capital Kunst des Fechtens (CKDF) on Saturday, March 14th at 1:00PM for a day of swinging, stabbing, learning, and all-around fun. CKDF is one of the largest non-profit Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) clubs in the eastern U.S.  Our instructors and members foster an inclusive atmosphere where all are welcome to explore the diverse world and weapons systems of bygone ages. This event is centered on the empowerment and satisfaction of sword swinging to women including: cis, trans, genderfluid and variant, femme, and non-binary friends.

Please review the Liability Waiver here: https://ckdf.tidyhq.com/public/pages/ckdf-liability-waiver

In our 90-minute longsword intro we will teach you the basics of Gemeinesfechten, common fencing, and introduce you to a few other weapon styles while we are at it. Marlene Hurst is a Gold medalist in both Longsword and Ringen.  She focuses heavily on body mechanics and making sure everyone feels at home while working through techniques and drills.  Elisabeth Storm has been focusing much of her time on single handed weapons and will be leading our Single Stick introduction.  No experience is necessary. Comfortable clothes and athletic, close-toed shoes you can move and sweat in are highly recommended. Ringen will be barefoot. If you are able, please bring a sturdy sweatshirt for Ringen as well. Pelvic protection is suggested, but not required. We have a cap of 20 attendees. This event is for 18+ individuals. An event for younger participants will be held at a seperate time in the future. For those unable or uncomfortable with wrestling, there will be an extended fencing lesson.

Give a Girl a Sword is a part of the international campaign run by Esfinges. We welcome any and all women to come and share the fun of sword fighting. A Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) organization founded by and for women, Esfinges is focused on getting more women into HEMA. It is estimated that only 20% of HEMA practitioners are female, and an even smaller number compete at events. Many women find themselves the sole female member of their school. Esfinges has noted that if every person in HEMA were to encourage just one woman to try a class, we would make a huge improvement, and has challenged clubs and fencers to encourage friends, colleagues, wives, girlfriends, sisters, mothers and daughters to try HEMA!  Learn more about Esfinges at: esfinges.net.