
This one-of-a-kind seminar with two world-renowned instructors, Dr. Guy Windsor and Chris Vanslambrouck, will explore the fascinating world of 15th and 16th century martial arts, and compare the techniques used by Italian medieval and Renaissance fencers with those of Joachim Meyer.
As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to request specific topics from both instructors. Whether you’re interested in specific footwork, sword techniques, or historical contexts, we can dive deep into the topics that interest you the most. Bring your questions, curiosity, and sword-related problems, and let Chris and Guy help.
Dr. Guy Windsor is a leading expert in historical European martial arts, and has written a dozen books on the martial arts of Fiore dei Liberi, Philippo Vadi, and of Ridolfo Capoferro. He’s also the founder of Swordschool, host of The Sword Guy podcast, and has a PhD in reconstructing medieval and Renaissance Italian combat systems. Chris Vanslambrouck is a professional instructor and author focussing on Joachim Meyer, founder of the historical fencing school Living Meyer, and President of the Meyer Freifechter Guild. You will be in very experienced hands.

This seminar is intended for students with some basic training in one or other of the systems we will cover. Meyer students will be exposed to Fiore and Capoferro, and vice-versa. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this seminar will take your historical martial arts skills and knowledge to the next level.
You will need to bring a suitable training weapon, and a mask. Some loaners will be available, please let us know when registering what you will need, and bring your own if you can. There may be an opportunity for free fencing, so bring your fencing gear if you would like to freeplay.
Saturday:
10am-11.30 meet and greet, Q+A, and seminar planning at 2434 E Johnson St
12pm – 12.30 at Goodman Community Centre: warm-ups, basic sword work 12.30-1.30 Fiore longsword overview
1.30-2.30 Meyer longsword overview
2.30-2.45 Break
2.45-5pm: Comparing the two systems
Sunday:
10am- 10.30 Warm-ups and basic sword work
10.30-11.30 Capoferro rapier overview
11.30-12.30 Meyer’s rappir overview
12.30-1pm Comparing the two systems
1-2pm Lunch (not provided- bring some!)
2-3 Mechanics deep dive
3-4 Tactics deep dive
4-5 Who would win in a 3-way fight? Meyer, Capoferro, or Fiore?
This schedule is advisory: we will finalise it on the day, with input from the students.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to train with two of the world’s leading instructors. Attendance is limited to only 30 students, so book your place now. We can’t wait to see you there!
July 15-16, 2023, in Madison, WI
$150 for weekend, or $80 for one day
Saturday 15th:
10am at 2434 E Johnson St for meet & greet and Q&A noon – 5pm at Goodman Community Center
Sunday 16th:
10-5 Goodman Community Center
Contact heidzer@gmail.com if you have any questions or need help registering.