SINGLE BLADE EDGED WEAPONS 101 WORKSHOP

 Locomotion and maneuvability are vital in edged weapon combat.  When the error of an inch or less can determine a severe injury or death, this is one of the foremost skills that must be mastered.  Our fundamental footwork consist of angled patterns of movement which is often executed in many successful fighting styles and fighters.  Universally, movement wins the battle.

In Edged weapons fighting you must know your tool and how to properly use it.  Handling a knife is more than just holding it in your grasp and swinging it toward your opponent.  To the untrained eye, it may appear like the skilled edged weapons fighter is flailing his weapon about just hoping to make contact.  The exact opposite is true.  The way you hold your weapon dictates your range, capabilities and advantages.  

  In edged weapon combat, your movements are deliberate, precise and planned.  Unlike combat sports or empty hand combat, you CAN NOT trade shots and damage.  One thrust making contact and penetration can end the fight.  Each strike is taken in an attempt to either manipulate your opponent to move where you want them so that your subsequent strike makes contact or to clear space for you to move where you need to be. To win any fight, you must be a step ahead at minimum.

In this single blade 101 workshop we skim the surface of what you must control to be successful. 

Pressure testing is the true test of skill.  Be the end of day one you will begin to put what you learned to use.  By the end of day two will move confidently to protect your self and to do harm to your opponent.