Thanks for contacting us! We’ve got you in our system and one of our staff will get back with you as soon as possible. We are an all-volunteer organization, so please be patient if it takes a couple days. In the meantime, some answers to commonly asked questions can be found below.

How do I join?

We require all new students not coming from an established and recognized HEMA school or club to come through our Intro Class. This class allows students to learn the core basics of swordplay and allows them the chance to see if our school is a good fit for them. We are constantly striving to improve this course, so please see our Join Today page to find an Intro Class that works for you.

How much are classes?

Once a student completes the Intro Class, they can purchase their yearly school membership. This grants the student access to our monthly open classes and any school events, such as are twice-monthly Fight Nights (open sparring). The student can also sign up for unlimited monthly instruction which grants them access to any and all of our regular weekly classes.

Currently, yearly memberships cost $65. Monthly classes run $95/month. Students are able to pause their monthly subscription as needed as long as they notify the school prior to billing.

When are classes held?

You can view our current schedule on our The School page.

Do I need to have my own gear/sword?

Short answer: No. Long answer: Eventually 🙂 All students that come through our Intro Class will start their HEMA career with a fencing mask of their own – it comes included in the package! From there, they can add to their kit as slowly or as quickly as their interest level and budget allows. Ars Gladii maintains a sizable school armory that is available for students to use during classes. We also make use of padded simulators as needed to allow students who haven’t been able to accumulate the necessary protective gear to participate as well.

Can I come watch a class or event?

Yes! We encourage students that want to learn more about HEMA or Ars Gladii to come out and observe a class or Fight Night prior to signing up for an Intro Class. Please contact us first, though, so we can ensure some is there to answer any questions you may have

I’m under 18. Can I join? Do you have a youth program?

Sadly, we cannot accept minors into the school. Since we are an all-volunteer organization, the logistics and liability associated with working with minors is more than we can bear.

Do you offer private lessons?

We do on occasion offer private lessons. Rates start at $100/hour. Please contact us for more information.

I’d love to play with swords for my birthday/bachelor/bachelorette/whatever! Do you offer group events/parties?

Yes! Please contact us with details on your event. Please note that no alcohol can be consumed prior to or during an event.