Instructors
Brittany Reeves
Brittany is a passionate martial artist who brings attention to form and function. She is a recognized international HEMA instructor and accomplished competitor. A testament to her success is her multiple medals in longsword, cutting, ringen, and glima. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Ancient and Medieval History, and cross-trains in submission wrestling. Brittany is also the dedicated author for the blog 'Women of HEMA' and is a current member of the HEMA Alliance Governing Council.
Kyle Griswold
Super-champion.
What We Do
Historical European Martial Arts
HEMA is Europe's legacy of fighting arts dating back to the Medieval Period. We utilize primary sources that date between the 1300s to late 1500s that describe specific fighting systems for wrestling and weapons. Despite the historical context of our art, we treat this as a modern activity and do not wear period or reenactment clothing.
Kunst des Fechtens
We focus specifically on the Germanic traditions, which we refer to as Kunst des Fechtens, or KdF, for short. Classes cover the use of the longsword, messer, dagger, polearms, sword and shield, as well as ringen (wrestling). We apply modern biomechanics and exercise to enhance our performance as athletes.
HEMA Today
Students will enjoy a vast and thriving international community of fighters, as well as a vibrant local community of sword fighting in Phoenix. Competitions are held locally and abroad. We highly encourage our students to participate in these events in order to test themselves and make new friends! For those less inclined towards competition, HEMA serves as a fun hobby and unique form of exercise.
Arizona HEMA League
The Phoenix Society of Historical Swordsmanship
Swordfighting in Phoenix, Arizona
HEMA Alliance
The HEMA Alliance (HEMAA) is a service organization for the Historical European Martial Arts community which benefits students and instructors.
Tucson Historic Fencing Club
Swordfighting in Tucson, Arizona