Reviews of The Academy of European Swordsmanship

We're on the south side, North of Capilano Mall, at Fulton Place Park, Fulton Place Community Hall.

Classes are Tuesday and Thursday, 7:00 to 9:30

I've dabbled in various martial arts over the past 20 years but the one I recommend the most of all is the AES. I became a member in 2004 and while I studied other martial arts concurrently I found the AES consistently met all my needs from self-defense to fitness to community. I won't break down how the AES teaches HEMA, as I'm sure other reviewers will elaborate on better than me, but I would like to explain how this school has two main features that make it my favorite from other schools I've attended. First, the AES is constantly improving the curriculum to reflect updated changes in areas such as interpretations of techniques and changing the class structure to reflect modern research into training methods. Second, student development is encouraged through (with instructor approval) student-led classes and study projects allowing student to set the pace with what weapons, skills, and time periods they wish to learn. I believe that this philosophy explains how this school has been continually expanding for the past 20+ years.

I first learned that HEMA was a thing from a New York Times article back in 2014, I then went to Google to see if there was anywhere in Edmonton that specialized in HEMA and much to my surprise there was a school who had it as there full focus. I remember my first class as being very open and welcoming as well as super fun! I've been a regular attender for almost 3 years now and have no intention of stopping. The people are always willing to help and have a good time, you will come for the swords but stay for the fun and the people.

Recommended for anyone who is interesting in swordsmanship and martial arts. Guys there know their stuff!