Props out to Redwood Falls Minnesota

[Aaron Pynenberg]

Folks,
I just returned from spending the weekend working out with Todd Eriksen in Minnesota. Todd has had a life-long interest in arms and armor.

I have been talking with him for about a year on-line exchanging ideas and discussing martial arts.

He is the proud owner of three suits of plate armor and gives presentations to school kids, and groups about what it may have been like to train, fight and live in the time period.

This past weekend I made the drive over and spent the weekend with his family showing him some basics and giving him some beginner advice. He in turn became my "squire" and suited me up in his Illusion arms, 15th Century Italian Harness, giving me insights into his discoveries about wearing and maintaining the armor. His practical knowledge about the armor is impressive and I learned a ton from him about the armor- Thanks again to Todd, and his Wife Heidi, for the hospitality! Now practice, practice, practice, pra....you get the idea- thanks again Todd- Aaron P.

[Todd Eriksen]

I just want to thank Aaron for the travel and time that he put in to come to Redwood Falls, and his great patience with us 'ignorant' folk up here. I've read a great deal about the history, military and civilian side of the High Middle Ages, and as Aaron can attest, I have a bit of gear, too, but to actually get an insight into how they handled the longsword was incredible. It is nothing like I imagined. I was worn out after the full days session that Aaron put us through, but when I awoke the next day was so eager to put to practice the small amount of knowledge that he had given us. I'm very excited to hopefully get more involved with ARMA as all ready I've learned so much.
Oh, and by the way, my first experience with full contact? A thrust right to the face which sent me back a good 6 ft.

Thanks again, Aaron

Todd