Sigmund Ringeck:
"Here begins the exposition of the manual, in which is written the knightly art of the long sword, composed and created by Johannes Liechtenauer, a great master of the art. May God be merciful to him! He it was who had the manual written with cryptic and obscure words, so that the art should not become common knowledge. And these same cryptic and obscure words have been glossed and explained, as appears in this same little book, by master Sigmund of the Ringeck family, who is currently fencing master to his most noble Highness Albrecht, Count Palatine of the Rhine and Duke of Bavaria, so that any man who already has experience of fencing from a different source may read and understand them."Training
School Philosophy
The School of Traditional Medieval Fencing has made it's own translation and interpretation of the 1430-1450 manuscript of Sigmund Ringeck (the elder). We consider the techniques and principles contained within the longsword discipline to be suitable as a good grounding for all the other weapons of which we practice. As a consequence all new students will start their training with the longsword. Our method of teaching is derived from this discipline and the parts of the manuscript that it concerns. We have devised a grading system that reflects what we consider to be the most important elements from basic, grades 1 and 2, to advanced, grade 6.
Grade 1 and 2
Master strikes, guards, and elementary principles of timing and footwork
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Grade 3
Basic principles of Nachreisen, the vor and the nach. Developing timing and footwork
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Grade 4
Demonstrating the relationship between principles and position and intent of the opponent. The fulen and the indes
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Grade 5
Show an understanding of how the system is self sufficient, and demonstrate your ability to "read" and pre-empt your opponents' intent
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Grade 6
Further development of all aspects of the discipline. Atainment of a recognised coaching award or BFHS CI and first aid.
Show confidence in using the system to control your opponent and the fight
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The master grades follow the completion of grade 6, giving the student the opportunity to become proficient in a further discipline of their choice. These include, but are not limited to; Messer, lance, dagger, pole weapons and sword and buckler. The Master Student is expected to direct historical research and martial development in their chosen weapon discipline. We do not insist that a student, after completing grade 6 continues solely with the Ringeck philosophy.