ISMAC 2005

August 5-7 2005
Lansing Community College
Lansing, Michigan
Event Website

Solo Rapier Drills for Physical Conditioning and Mechanical Accuracy

This class went through a slight variantion of the standard Order of the Seven Hearts solo-drill routine. First, a few basic actions were shown along with the check-points for correct execution. Then, these actions were performed at full speed in a series of workout-like repetition. The result was to make apparent how these drills build a rapier-targeted physical conditioning and greatly enhance mechanical accuracy.

Instructor: Tom Leoni

The Tactically Correct Use of the Cut in 17th Century Italy

In this class, we explored the fascinating aspect of cuts in what we call rather restrictively "rapier treatises," along with the relevant tactical rules on which they are founded. Firstly, students were made familiar with what each of the great 17th Masters says about the cut in terms of tactics, mechanics and lethality. Then, they saw, performed and practiced a series of offensive and defensive actions involving the cut. All material presented was strictly from the historical sources.

Instructor: Tom Leoni

Rapier of Salvatore Fabris Master Class

In this class, we carefully analyzed the individual "chess pieces" of this defensive position, and saw how they fit together tactically, technically and physically. The two main advantages of learning these techniques are:

1. Drastically reducing the number of double-hits in freeplay and.
2. Always maintaining control of the main line of attack, thereby making it extremely hard for the opponent to score a hit.

Instructor: Tom Leoni

The Tactically Correct Use of the Cut in 17th Century Italy
Tom demonstrates a feint thrust high with a low Riverso to the leg.	The students performing a drill.
Tom demonstrates a parry against Steve's Riverso.	Students performing a parry of Prima.
Tom demonstrates a thrust in time against Steve's Mandritto.	A another counter in time by Tom in response to Steve's action.
Rapier of Salvatore Fabris Master Class
Tom demonstrating Fabris' well-formed Guard of Terza.	Students assuming the guard against an approaching opponent.
Tom demonstrates the defensive capability of the hilt during a lunge.	The class performing a drill to Tom's instructions.
The students test the defensive capability of their hilts.