MARS is an association for training and researching Historical European Martial Arts (H.E.M.A.).
Using primary sources from the Middle Ages, these old European martial arts are researched and taught in Groningen and Zwolle. The club focuses on two disciplines: fighting with a longsword and fighting with a sword & buckler. During the training, attention is also paid to fighting with daggers and unarmed fighting.
In addition, there are also initiatives within the club to research other historical martial arts. For example, outside the regular curriculum, there is a study group that focuses on fighting with a rapier & main gauche.
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Are you interested and would you like to join us sometime?
What are Historical European Martial Arts?
Historical European Martial Arts, better known as Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), is the international collective name for the research and practice of ancient martial arts from the European area.
When people hear the term martial arts, they often think of Asian styles or modern ring sports. However, Europe also has a rich martial arts tradition. Over the centuries, many manuscripts and instruction books have been written by masters of the most diverse fighting styles. These sources range from concise, even cryptic descriptions to extensive step-by-step explanations with colorful pictures.
Originating from the late Middle Ages onwards, a wealth of original sources have been made available describing a variety of styles, from the use of a sword and buckler in 1320, to Victorian self-defence, around 1900. These written sources form the basis of HEMA as a modern activity, in research, training and competition.
INVENIAM VIAM AUT FACIAM
“I find a way, or I make one.”
The motto of MARS.
This statement is attributed to the warlord Hannibal. He is said to have said this to his generals, when they told him that it was impossible to cross the Alps with his elephants.
Perseverance and resourcefulness; good qualities for a swordsman and in everyday life.
(Leutemann,1866)
CC0 Münchener Bilderbogen
Workshops and events
MARS also provides education outside the association and regular training. This includes workshops and demonstrations in various settings, in various styles and weapons (for example long sword, daggers and sustainable unarmed styles). Mars is happy to provide appropriate customization, in consultation with the organizer of the event.