Need some advice...

[Trevor Pearse]

Hi guys, this is my first post here.

I've always been interested in the Martial arts, but have never taken them up. I'm 22 years old, looking to get back into shape, and I'm about to start my 3rd year of University in Ontario Canada. I figured that Fencing might be a good way to start. I know my school has a fencing club that I'm thinking of joining, but I really know nothing about the art.

I'm wondering if there's any tips/advice anyone here could give me about the art. Suggestions on where or how I should get started, what I should buy or borrow, what I should read, information on the sport itself and how long it takes to get good at it, and how it translates to other weapon sports.

Also, is there anything like ARMA way up here in Canada?

Thanks.

[Jaron Bernstein]

Well, I would say that ARMA is a good workout. Also, it teaches and more importantly INTEGRATES all the ranges of fighting. You won't get that integration of the ranges in modern fencing. Finally, this method actually teaches effective usage of weapons, which isn't so common in many arts that deal mainly with empty hand stuff.

Just my 2 cents,
<img src="/forum/images/icons/wink.gif" alt="" />

[JeffGentry]

Well this is totaly different then what you would see in the University fencing club, if you go to the home page and take a little tour you'll see that this is alot diffrent than an eastern martial art or sport fencing.

We do alot of research and reading and are reviving a lost art and we are relearning the western martial art's as a combat art, we welcome new member's but this is not for everyone, take a look at the site.

[James_Knowles]

Hey! Another Canuck. <img src="/forum/images/icons/smile.gif" alt="" /> (I grew up in the Vancouver area.)

Please dig into the ARMA site to get a feel for how unique ARMA is. This is a fascinating mix of kick-your-butt physically challenging work and academic research.

I'd examine what your goals are. Are you interested in just physical activity? Competitions? Sport fencing may be for you. If you're more interested in the earnest rough-and-tumble world of Renaissance martial (war) arts where one "takes the gloves off," so to speak, ARMA may fit well. You may consider the essay on How to tell if your Fencing is a Martial Art or a Combat Sport.

ARMA is the largest, most prestigious organization of its kind. Even so, this area of research is still in its infancy and thus there isn't a study group in every city. Many individuals work out and study solo with support from the rest of us over the Internet. As interest grows, we form study groups which are clusters of local students working together.

If at all possible, I would strongly suggest travelling to one of the "1.0" training classes which are held periodically. This will blow your mind and propel you ahead with a solid understanding of the basics. Even if you decide it's not for you, you'll have a lot of fun at the event. Our local study group was fortunate enough to host one a week and a half ago. A brief write-up is here, and photos are here.

[Jaron Bernstein]

Just another thought.

Ye may want to think about starting, as the first member, an ARMA group in your area. Our local group started with 2 people pondering, "gee, wouldn't it be cool to try this out..."

Also, if you can get to a 1.0 seminar that is always helpful and well worth the trip.