Our Training Sessions
Invirtus as a club focuses both on the martial and the physical aspect of HEMA. We start each session with an extensive physical training, followed by theory, applied exercises and sparring.
We consider physical fitness an important element of HEMA. Many fights have been and will be won simply because one fighter is tired, and the other is not, no matter their skill. This is why the first part of our training focuses mainly on strength, cardio, explosiveness, reflexes, etc. Additionally, this ‘iconic’ element of our training also builds character and team spirit!
We offer three classes per week: one in Aarschot(Sunday) one in Leuven(Thursday) and one in Hasselt(tuesday). Check out our (locations page) for more info. The content of our classes varies month-by-month, with the the session in Hasselt and Leuven being more beginner friendly, and Aarschot catering to a mixed group of starters and advanced fencers.
Fitness level
You shouldn’t be concerned about your fitness level or prior martial arts background, as most exercises can be performed slowly or at speed depending on your comfort zone. Moreover, you’ll soon find out everyone is willing to help and motivate you to develop your skills.
We welcome anyone from all walks of life, and every session we strive towards creating and maintaining a safe and inclusive environment where everyone should feel free to be themselves.
So whether you have always wanted to become a swordfighter, you’re preparing for the inevitable zombie apocalypse or just want to have a good time, come join us at one of our regular classes and learn to use a sword the way it was meant to be!
Safety
Due to safety and insurance reasons however, our minimum age is 16.
Also, for your own safety we recommend that you are up to date with your tetanus shots.
Lastly if you suffer from previous medical conditions from earlier battles with stairs, chairs or dragons, please let at least one of the trainers now so we can prepare alternative excercises if neccesarry.
What do I need?
One of the most common questions we are asked is what equipment is required to participate in the sessions. The good news is that for your first sessions, you will need nothing more than loose clothing suitable for exercise (e.g. t-shirt, tracksuit trousers, sport shoes). Training weapons will be provided by the club for those that do not have their own.
Some advanced drills will require mask and gloves or full sparring gear. Whilst some of these are available to borrow, there are far fewer of these items available for general use, especially when working with steel weapons.
Once you have decided that HEMA is for you we would encourage you to buy your own equipment. This will both help us grow the club and be much nicer to use during training than the old, communal loaner gear. It will also allow you to participate in events and workshops not run by the club.
Gear prices of course depend on what you buy and in which quality. Some ballpark prices however are:
- € 760 for basic gear: € 200 for mask, € 60 for throat protector, € 300 for sword, € 200 for gloves
- Additional € 500 for the rest: sparring vest, fencing pants, leg protection, etc.
You can find a list of HEMA suppliers, and details of Invirtus member discounts on our ‘links’ page. We strongly recommend visiting the Zwaard en Volk shop when purchasing your (first) gear.
Pricing
Free
€ 0
- 3 free introduction trainings
- Useable at any of the 3 locations
- Use of club gear
- Send us an e-mail first
Per year
€ 90 / year
- Full insurance
- Access to all sessions in all locations
- Use of club gear
- Access to online resources
Per quarter
€ 30 / 3 months
- Full insurance
- Access to all sessions in all locations
- Use of club gear
- Access to online resources
How do I join?
To join our club we have created a very simple guide for you to follow. You can find this secret page here
How can I look that cool?
Club T-shirts are available at € 15 each, Pullovers at € 25. Mail us to order.
