About Us
At Lake Charles HEMA, we train in Historical European Martial Arts — the study and practice of medieval and renaissance fencing. Our focus is the longsword, taught through authentic techniques preserved in historical manuals and adapted for today’s students.
We believe martial arts should be accessible, challenging, and rewarding. Whether you’re looking for fitness, competition, or a connection to history, our classes are welcoming to beginners and engaging for experienced fencers.
Our mission is simple:
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Preserve and teach the art of historical fencing.
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Build a supportive community of students and practitioners.
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Provide a safe, disciplined, and fun environment for learning.
Come train with us, and discover the art, strategy, and athleticism of the sword.
Our Story
Lake Charles HEMA began training in 2017 and has been growing ever since. Over the past decade, we’ve developed a structured teaching method built on measurable skill progressions.
Our curriculum is divided into three ranks — Apprentice, Journeyman, and Free Scholar — guiding students step by step through their training. Each stage builds upon the last, ensuring steady development in both technical ability and understanding.
By following these modules, students become well-versed in the core techniques of historical fencing, drawn from multiple authentic historical manuals. This progression gives every student a clear path to mastery while preserving the art we study.