Getting Started with HEMA

Finding a HEMA Club Near You: A Beginner's Guide

By HILT Official · Mar 9, 2026 · 6 min read

How to find Historical European Martial Arts clubs and study groups in your area, what to expect at your first visit, and how to evaluate if a club is right for you.

Finding a HEMA Club Near You: A Beginner's Guide So you've decided you want to try Historical European Martial Arts. The first challenge: finding somewhere to train. HEMA clubs aren't as visible as karate dojos or boxing gyms. They don't usually have storefronts on busy streets. Many train in rented community halls, gymnasiums, or parks. But the community is larger and more accessible than you might think. Where to Search HEMA Alliance Club Finder maintains one of the largest directories of HEMA clubs globally. Search by country, state, or region. HEMA Club Finder and social media groups on…

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What Is HEMA? A Complete Introduction Historical European Martial Arts explained: what it is, where it comes from, and why thousands of people are picking up longswords.
How to Start a HEMA Club From Scratch A practical, step-by-step guide to founding a HEMA study group, from finding a venue to getting your first 10 members.
Your First HEMA Gear: A Buying Guide What to buy, what to skip, and how to avoid spending €2,000 before your first tournament.

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