Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA)

What is HEMA?

Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) are the study and practice of Europe’s traditional fighting systems. Practitioners reconstruct techniques from historical manuals, ranging from medieval longsword and rapier fencing to staff, dagger, and wrestling.

While many martial arts in Asia have an unbroken lineage, European arts largely disappeared as practical systems and are now being revived through research, training, and competition.

Today, HEMA combines academic study with martial practice, offering both cultural depth and modern combat sport.

Why Train HEMA?

• Historical Authenticity – based on real medieval and renaissance manuals.

• Weapon Variety – longsword, sabre, rapier, staff, and more.

• Competitive Growth – tournaments and sparring events.

• Community & Research – combine martial arts with history.

• Cultural Heritage – rediscover Europe’s forgotten martial past.

How Does HEMA Compare?

• Vs Kendo – both are sword arts, but Kendo is a living tradition, HEMA is reconstructed.

• Vs Kung Fu/Sibpalgi – similar breadth of weapons, but with European heritage.

• Vs Fencing – fencing is modern sport; HEMA revives historical combat.

HEMA in Europe

Since the 1990s, HEMA has grown into a large community across Europe, with federations, tournaments, and clubs in nearly every country. Germany, Italy, and Scandinavia are especially active.