So I've got a waster and the fechtbucher. Now what?

[John Fares]

It seems to me that the old manuals are meant for someone who has a vague idea what they're doing, who already has a few bricks in their foundation. I don't. How can I build one? There're not enough people in my area who can do a regular get-together. What are the things I should look at for my foundation? Thanks!

-- John

[CalebChow]

Hey John, I found that watching the numerous videos on the page greatly helped guide my study. Learning by imitation isn't perfect, but it certainly helped me pick it up much faster once I found a group.

The articles and essays on this page may help also, but I overall found the videos much more helpful.

It's worth it to try to find an ARMA group somewhere and just visit them for a day or two--a single lesson can set you on the right track.

Good luck!

[Jonathan Hill]

John

I had thought you were able to get together with Sean every once in a while. There are a few books ‘for the beginner’ out there, in addition to the ARMA ones there are many more, just search Longsword on Amazon, (that way I don’t end up pushing a particular book

As ARMA groups in this area are scarce if you can make it to the south bay on an occasional weekend the school I practice at has longsword classes (but of course if you are near an ARMA group I’m sure they will be happy to host you.) that should give you quite a few of the basics to help you feel more comfortable moving on. http://swordfightingschool.com/school.html

[Shane Smith]

Get out to a regional event at your earliest convenience. Until then, practice your guards, cuts and transitions.

[John Farthing]

I agree with Jonathan's advice to READ! (There are many great articles and a wealth of information, right here at www.theARMA.org)! I also completely agree with what Shane has already stated and would simply add, if you have access to a pell, it is also a great training aid for swordsmen at any level of experience!

Good Luck!

[Jaron Bernstein]

A pell can be as simple as a tree or phone pole. A hanging heavy bag or a BOB (one of those human shaped punching bags) is probably optimal.

[Clint_Schaaf]

There are a few books ‘for the beginner’ out there, in addition to the ARMA ones there are many more, just search Longsword on Amazon, (that way I don’t end up pushing a particular book

That's been a problem for me. A good problem, but none the less confusing. There are many books out there which have received good reviews and as a beginner I don't really know which books are best for getting started. I understand not wanting to push a particular book, but the ARMA has been very open about the constant evolution of Renaissance martial arts so I don't want to get an outdated book and start off on the wrong track. If nothing else, what books are considered outdated?