FAQs

  1. What is HEMA?
    HEMA stands for Historical European Martial Arts, the study and practice of historical European fighting systems based on surviving manuals, treatises, and fencing traditions. At MyTHS, HEMA includes weapons like longsword, rapier, saber, sword and buckler, and dagger, trained through research, drills, sparring, and modern safety equipment.

  2. Where is MyTHS located?
    MyTHS trains at CrossFit Bel Air in Forest Hill, Maryland, near Bel Air in Harford County. We serve students from Harford County, Cecil County, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Delaware, and the surrounding Maryland region.

  3. What weapons do you train with?
    MyTHS trains in longsword, rapier, saber, sword and buckler, dagger, and other historical fencing traditions. Our studies include sources and masters such as Joachim Meyer for German longsword, Capo Ferro for Italian rapier, Spanish Destreza for rapier, Roworth and Angelo for saber, and I.33 for sword and buckler.

  4. Do I need experience to start HEMA?
    No experience is needed to start training with MyTHS. Our beginner classes are designed for new students and introduce the basics of footwork, distance, guards, attacks, safety, and how to move with a sword in a controlled training environment.

  5. How do I join a beginner longsword class?
    You can join a beginner longsword class by registering through our website when a new class is open. Beginner classes run in scheduled cycles, and spots are limited, so we recommend signing up early when registration becomes available.

  6. What should I wear to my first class?
    Wear comfortable clothes you can move and exercise in, along with closed-toe athletic shoes. We also recommend bringing water, especially since HEMA is an active martial art and classes include movement, drills, and partner training.

  7. Do I need my own sword or protective gear?
    No, beginner students do not need to own a sword or protective gear to start. MyTHS provides the equipment needed for beginner training, and instructors can help guide students on what to buy later if they decide to continue.

  8. Is HEMA safe?
    HEMA is a martial art, so safety matters, but MyTHS uses controlled instruction, progressive training, protective equipment, and clear rules to help students train responsibly. Beginners start with fundamentals before moving into more advanced drills or sparring.

  9. How much do classes or membership cost?
    Class and membership costs may vary depending on the program, event, or training cycle. Current pricing, registration details, and available classes are listed on our website when registration is open.

  10. What age groups can train at MyTHS?
    MyTHS primarily offers training for adults and teens, with age requirements depending on the class, equipment, and level of instruction. If you are registering a minor, please review the class details and contact us with any questions before signing up.

  11. What is the difference between HEMA and modern fencing?
    Modern fencing is an Olympic sport focused on foil, epee, and saber under modern rules, while HEMA studies historical European combat systems from surviving sources. HEMA often includes weapons such as longsword, rapier, saber, sword and buckler, and dagger, with an emphasis on historical technique, martial context, and sparring.

  12. Do you offer longsword, rapier, saber, and sword and buckler classes?
    Yes, MyTHS offers training in longsword, rapier, saber, sword and buckler, dagger, and related historical fencing systems. Availability may vary by class cycle, instructor schedule, and club programming.

  13. Do you compete in tournaments?
    Yes, MyTHS members participate in HEMA tournaments across the United States, and the club also hosts local tournaments and competitive events. Competition is not required, but students who want to test their skills can train toward tournament fencing.

  14. Can MyTHS do demonstrations at festivals or community events?
    Yes, MyTHS participates in public demonstrations and local events, including Renaissance festivals, fairy festivals, community programs, and historical fencing demonstrations. If you are interested in having MyTHS at an event, please contact us through the website.

  15. How do I contact MyTHS?
    You can contact MyTHS through our website, email, Facebook group, or Discord community. We are happy to answer questions about HEMA classes, beginner longsword, membership, tournaments, demonstrations, and historical fencing in the Forest Hill and Bel Air area.

  16. What equipment do I need?
    We discuss this topic in a blog post on our website. https://swordmyths.org/news/2024-hema-buying-guide

  17. How much does it cost?
    We offer several memberships for various different prices.

    https://myths.tidyhq.com/public/membership_levels

    First Night is Free

    Nightly Membership: $25 a night

    Monthly Membership: $60 a month and $50 for additional memberships

    Six Month Membership: $315.

  18. Where can I get shirts with your logo?
    Our official site for getting HCHFC merchandise is Spreadshirt. On there you can get shirts, hoodies, totes, mugs, water bottles and more.