Training Royal Armouries MS I.33
Training Royal Armouries MS I.33
Royal Armouries MS I.33 is the earliest surviving European fencing manual, and presents a complete martial system built around the sword and buckler. These pages describe how we train this system at Swordschool.
The training methods described here are modern. They are informed by the historical source, but organised to help modern students learn safely and efficiently.
Getting Started
If you're completely new to the system, begin here:
- Choosing a Sword and Buckler
- Finding the I.33 guard position
- Basic I.33 Footwork and Striking drill
- I.33 Basic Syllabus
Basic Syllabus
The basic syllabus introduces the essential mechanics of the system before moving on to the individual plays from the manuscript.
Core Skills
These pages develop the fundamental skills needed throughout the system.
Freeplay
The purpose of the syllabus is not simply to reproduce the manuscript, but to develop the ability to fence effectively.
Conditioning
Physical preparation for sword and buckler fencing.
