HEMA BLOG

Guides, equipment reviews, training advice and historical sources for Historical European Martial Arts.

Is HEMA Safe?

July 15, 2026

In this article: Learn how modern HEMA manages risk through protective equipment, training methods, instructor supervision, and club culture. Discover why safety depends not only on gear, but also on responsible training and community standards. One of the first questions many people ask when they discover Historical European Martial Arts is whether it is actually safe. The concern is understandable. Most first encounters with HEMA happen through videos of tournaments, sparring, or demonstrations, where participants appear to be striking each other with steel swords at considerable speed. Viewed without context, it can look dangerous, even reckless. The reality is more nuanced. Like any martial art, combat sport, or physical activity

Read More

What Equipment Do You Need to Start HEMA?

July 15, 2026

In this article: Learn what equipment you actually need for your first HEMA training session, why buying a sword is rarely the best first purchase, how experienced practitioners approach equipment planning, and what beginners should consider before investing in protective gear. You Need Less Than You Think One of the first surprises many newcomers encounter is that getting started in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) is often much easier than they expected. After watching tournament footage, sparring videos, or event photos, it’s easy to assume that you need a steel sword, a full protective kit, and a significant budget before stepping onto the training floor. In reality, most HEMA clubs

Read More