This post provides links to videos for every lesson we covered in the Mastery Program at Academie Duello for July 16 to 22.

This week Green Cords (level 1) learn about control of the opponent's sword and take advantage of their opponent's movement to strike. Blue Cords (level 2) continue their work on provocations by attacking the opponent to their body and weapon arm. Red Cords (level 3) step into tempo with the quarterstaff exploring opportunities to strike. Our solo video this week will get you started on longsword fundamentals at home whether you have a sword or simply a dowel for practice.

Green Cord (Level 1)

http://duello.tv/featured-videos/this-week-in-class/

Stringere is the Italian verb "to constrain"; in class 5 you will explore how to use the mechanically superior 'finding' position to constrain your opponent strategically and force them to make a movement that gives you an opportunity to strike. Class 6 then builds on various alternate opportunities that follow constraint.

Blue Cord (Level 2)

http://duello.tv/featured-videos/this-week-in-class/

Sometimes the best thing to do to start a fight is to simply make a concerted attack. In this week of provocations we explore the best attacks to make to an opponent based on their starting position. When attacking in earnest you want to make an attack that is 1. hard to parry, 2. gives you safety through cover, and 3. brings your opponent out of position so they can easily be struck with a second or third attack.

Red Cord (Level 3)

http://duello.tv/featured-videos/this-week-in-class/

In this week of quarterstaff we explore the four opportunities to strike the opponent: 1. As they step into measure, 2. After we have parried, 3. While the opponent attempts to attack, and 4. While the opponent prepares to attack. Yes its solid sword work strategy but with a big stick.

Solo Exercise of the Week

http://duello.tv/featured-videos/fundamental-exercises

If you're new to the longsword, this video will help you set down the fundamental base for posture, movement, and basic cuts. With these skills in hand you'll find our other fundamentals exercises even more approachable.

Devon Boorman is the Co-Founder and Director of Academie Duello Centre for Swordplay, which has been active in Vancouver, Canada since 2004. Devon’s expertise centres on the Italian swordplay tradition including the arts of the Renaissance Italian rapier, sidesword, and longsword, as well as knife and unarmed techniques.
Read more from Devon Boorman.