What is HEMA?

HEMA (pronounced as "HEE-muh") is an acronym that stands for Historical European Martial Arts, and it is the study of historical fighting techniques of western origin, particularly those from the medieval and early modern periods. It can include everything from wrestling to armored combat, and while HEMA is not exclusively sword combat, you will find that the more commonly practiced systems orbit that theme. In recent years the community has expanded globally and has moved beyond learning only European techniques, so you will now often hear the terms Historical Fencing and Historical Martial Arts (HMA).

What weapons do you teach?

We are currently teaching German longsword and Italian rapier, but we hope to expand into more weapons in the future.

What gear do I need?

If this is your first time joining our club the only things you will need are exercise clothes, a bottle of water, and a positive attitude. If you like it and want to come back there you can find a required gear list here. We have some loaner gear and club weapons to allow new students to participate in class curriculum and drills while they start to acquire their kit. Expect to eventually spend between $500-1000 on a full kit for sparring. Please ask the instructors if you have more questions regarding gear.

Do I have to spend a ton on gear?

Not necessarily. The gear requirements listed are for full-contact sparring with steel, and nobody is required to spar. If you aren’t interested in anything full-contact and just want to take it easy and learn a few things with plastic swords or boffers, a mask, gloves, and groin/chest protection will be fine.

Is there an age requirement?

With parental permission 16+ can train and take classes, but you must be 18+ to spar with steel.

How much does it cost?

OCHS does not charge any money to attend our practices or events. We function entirely off donations. However, members are required to join the HEMA Alliance. See below.

How do I become a member of OCHS?

We are an affiliate of the HEMA Alliance so you will need to acquire a membership through them. They provide a 2-month intro class membership for free. After those 2 months an In-network Discounted Alliance Membership is $26/year. More information can be found here. For insurance purposes, you must show proof of HEMA Alliance membership before you are allowed to participate in any activities.

Do you guys use real swords?

For training longsword we use two types of sword-simulators: steel and nylon. The metal sword-simulators are a period-accurate training tool called a feder (pronounced as FAY-dah) that is meant to simulate the feel and weight of a real longsword, but with a blunted edge, rebated tip, and a significantly reduced impact force. The nylon swords are a lighter and more flexible simulator meant for drills and light sparring.

For training rapier we use a flexible and blunted version of the sword fitted with a rubber tip.

Are you guys LARPing?

Nope! HEMA/Historical fencing is not LARP (Live Action Role Playing), historical reenacting, or stage fighting. It is full-contact martial art comparable to Kendo and Escrima, and as such is inherently dangerous. While we love the LARP and historical reenacting communities, and often participate in their events, the focus of OCHS is learning combat techniques. Because of the inherent dangers of this sport, students are expected to conduct themselves in a safe and conscientious manner.

Are you related to the SCA?

No, we are a different type of organization, but we have an overlap in members and you are welcome to attend any all and other groups on island. We promise we won’t get jealous. More info about the Hawaii SCA branch can be found here, and if you wish to learn more about armored combat techniques of the medieval tournament feel free to check out Schola Saint George.

What if I can’t make it every week?

There are no requirements to attend anything that we do. You are welcome to join whenever is convenient for you.

Help! I can’t find you guys in the park!

Don’t worry, we got you! On Sundays you can find us at Moanalua Dog Park. We’re on the east side of the park on the concrete patio near the picnic benches. On Thursdays you can find us at Wilson Park by the Mauka basketball court. Please check with us for cancellations or changes in location.