Long Island Historical Fencing Society

LIHFS is a modern martial arts organization dedicated to studying, reconstructing and training with the German longsword and other period weapons. LIHFS is not a reenactment or LARP organization, nor a theatrical or "stage-fighting" group. LIHFS is a prominent member of the Historical European Martial Arts (“HEMA”) community with a focus on the German canon, specifically the Liechtenauer tradition. We are a member of the HEMA Alliance and have many highly seasoned and experienced members.

The mission of our instructors is to recreate and practice the medieval German Kunst des Fechtens (the “Art of Fighting"), which was an incredibly complex and sophisticated martial arts system. Through our ongoing research, LIHFS will bring to life the teachings of the historical masters via our proprietary curriculum, which is one of the most thorough and authentic programs available to the modern student. Our program is intensive and focused on teaching the fundamentals. We take pride in building a progressive understanding of the art and students receive hands-on instruction from one or more of our instructors. Our program is offered on a two-tiered system – Novice and Intermediate. We offer two options - $20 per two-hour class, or a block of 10 classes for $149 – first class is free! Once our students complete the Novice and Intermediate Modules, they will be invited to take the Haupstück (Entry Level) exam. If the student passes the exam, they will have an option to become a member and proceed to the Advanced Module or continue to take a-la-carte classes.

We have multiple classes per week to fit your schedule. Classes will begin with warm-ups and review of prior sessions, continue with new techniques, and finish with specific drills designed to refine the new techniques covered. This comprehensive longsword training program is based principally on the manuscript of 14th century German master Johannes Liechtenauer, as interpreted by the LIHFS. In addition to our own interpretation of the Liechtenauer canon, including the commentary and interpretations by Sigmund Ringeck, Peter Von Danzig, Codex Döbringer (MS 3227a), Hans Talhoffer, Paulus Kal, Andres Lignitzer, Ott Jud and others, we have consulted with and incorporated relevant interpretations and teachings of the leading modern-day masters.

Classes are held at the Omni Fitness Center at 333 Earle Ovington Blvd. in Uniondale, NY, in the lower lobby of the Omni Building. Featuring a spacious 1,800-square-foot fencing and fitness studio with 30-foot ceilings and an upper floor observation deck, the Omni Fitness Center is a full service gym, complete with a dedicated cardio room, free weights and strength equipment. Members enjoy our spacious locker rooms with steam and sauna rooms as well.

For more information, including pricing and class schedule, please email us at info@longislandlongsword.com, or call Michael Capanelli or Brad Rangell at 631-780-4682.