Historical Pedagogy

How to Structure a HEMA Training Session

By HILT Official · Mar 9, 2026 · 9 min read

A framework for planning effective HEMA training sessions, from warm-ups to sparring, with tips on drill selection, time management, and session flow.

How to Structure a HEMA Training Session A well-structured training session is the difference between a club where people improve and one where people just show up and swing swords. Good structure doesn't mean rigidity. It means intentional use of time. The Standard Framework Most effective HEMA sessions follow a similar arc: 1. Warm-Up (10-15 minutes) Physical preparation and mental transition. This goes beyond stretching. It's about getting the body ready for the specific demands of swordsmanship. Footwork drills, solo cutting patterns, and mobility work are more valuable than jogging…

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