Join Us!
HEMA sounds awesome! How do I join?
We’re excited to have you! The best way to get started is to attend our monthly beginner’s course. This two-day class is designed to teach you the basic body mechanics used in every sword-based system we train. Afterwards, you’ll be well prepared to join any of our regular classes.
Can’t wait that long? If you’re willing to jump in head-first, all of our “open” classes are very beginner-friendly. You don’t even need to own any of your own protective gear – we have loaner masks and gloves that you can use during these classes. You’re welcome to register for one of these classes with no prior training or practice, and we will do everything we can to make it a great experience for you.
If you’d prefer to spectate before deciding if HEMA is your thing, you can also show up to one of our free sparring hours. You’ll get the chance to watch some of our members fighting in earnest and practicing techniques, and you can talk to our instructors to ask any questions you may have face-to-face. Check out our schedule for the times of our free hours.
For more information on our class registration system, see the FAQ on this page. If you have any questions, email us at rocketcityhema@gmail.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We also maintain an active presence on Facebook, where you can see photos of what we’ve been working on recently and find info about any potential schedule changes or cancellations.
Where are you located?
Rocket City HEMA calls Huntsville, AL home. We have our own training space at 3054 Leeman Ferry Rd SW, Unit K. Our entrance is located in the alcove next to Unit K, up the stairs and to the left.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never done any martial arts before. Is HEMA a good one to start with?
Yes!
How do I join a class?
Our school operates on a system of monthly memberships. To join a new class, you will need to wait for the first week of a new month. This helps us ensure that class sizes remain under control. You are free to register for a class you are interested in advance of a new month, but you will not be added to the class until the start of a new month. Becoming a member of a class indicates a commitment to attend that class for the whole month – you will not be refunded for any class sessions which you are unable to attend.
How much do classes cost?
Registering for a class ensures your space in that class for the calendar month, and costs $50. For students who attend multiple classes, your second class registration costs $45, and your third and beyond cost $40. For example, registering for a month of rapier and quarterstaff lessons would cost $95 total.
How and when do I pay for classes?
Payment for a month of classes will be requested during the first class session of each new month. Students typically pay in cash, although we will also accept PayPal in some circumstances.
What should I wear to class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothes and a pair of indoor shoes. If you have any sports or mechanics gloves, bring those too. Light and tight-fitting gloves like baseball gloves are ideal. Men are also strongly encouraged to wear an athletic cup to every class.
Am I going to get hurt?
No. Our training emphasizes control of our weapons and body mechanics above all else. Only after months of practice and with proper protective gear do students engage in full-speed sparring. During class, you will wear a fencing mask (provided by the school), padded gloves, and forearm guards when needed. You will spend most of your time working through low-speed technique drills against another person while wearing this gear. You will occasionally still get jabbed with nylon swords or rubber-tipped steel weapons, and this can cause bruises, but these are the worst injuries you can expect from attending our classes.
What sort of gear should I buy?
Please do not buy any HEMA gear before you’ve tried some of ours! Our members can provide valuable advice on various products and companies, and are more than happy to let you test out a sword or try on a gambeson before spending money on one. This can save you a lot of time, money, and guesswork. Our school will also occasionally organize group orders to save on shipping or take advantage of bulk rate discounts.
Do you have a masking policy?
We have relaxed our masking and social distancing policy, but encourage students to look into getting their own fencing mask as their first piece of equipment. If you do not feel well, we ask that you stay home and please do not put others at risk.
HEMA is tons of fun and a great exercise with an awesome group of people.
What are you waiting for? Come check us out!
Rocket City HEMA 