Am I Strong Enough to Do Swordplay?

Many people express hesitation about beginning swordplay training, stating they need to get in better physical condition first. This perspective misses an important opportunity: swordplay itself serves as an excellent low-impact method for building strength and fitness.

How To Meet the Physical Challenges of Swordplay

The body adapts specifically to regular activities performed. Even professional bodybuilders have struggled to hold a sword - typically 2-3 pounds - for extended periods. The movement patterns and stabilizing muscles required for swordplay are specific to swordplay.

The best approach is simply to engage in swordplay. Allow your body to develop the necessary strength through practice itself.

It’s All About Posture

Poor posture, particularly the “desk hunch” that comes from modern office work, causes unnecessary strain and fatigue during training. When your head juts forward and your shoulders round, you’re fighting your own body before you even fight your opponent.

Proper positioning of limbs and head uses the correct muscle groups, making extended sword work significantly easier. Stand tall, keep your head balanced over your spine, and let your skeleton do its job.

Connective Tissue for the Win

Swordplay develops resilience through varied movements using body weight and light implements. This contrasts with weight training, which often neglects connective tissue - the tendons and ligaments that support your joints.

Adaptation in connective tissue requires between 8 and 12 weeks. This necessitates gradual progression and frequent rest breaks. Don’t rush it. Your muscles will adapt faster than your tendons, which is a recipe for injury if you push too hard.

Massage

Regular massage using foam rollers or similar tools increases circulation, promoting healing and strengthening around joints. Spend a few minutes before and after practice working on tight areas. Pay particular attention to forearms, shoulders, and hips.

Eat, Drink, & Sleep

Proper nutrition timing matters: eat meals 1-2 hours before class so you have energy but aren’t digesting during training. Stay hydrated throughout the day, not just during practice. Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair. And perhaps most importantly, get 7-9 hours of sleep to support recovery and adaptation.

Your body does its rebuilding during rest. Shortchange your sleep and you shortchange your progress.

Just Do It

Everyone begins as a novice. The most accomplished swordspeople in the world all had a first day when they didn’t know how to hold a sword. Consistent practice yields rapid improvements and confidence building.

You don’t need to be strong to start swordplay. You need to start swordplay to become strong.