The Duelist's Companion
Posted: Mon Dec 28, 2009 5:58 pm
The Duelist's Companion: A training manual for the 17th century Italian rapier; by Guy Windsor.
On the back of the book it lists that
One of the things that stands out is that Windsor offers an brief look at what he calls "preparation exercises". In this section he stresses the importance of being in shape enough to use a blade and offers up basic exercises to prepare a person for the work. These focus on basic leg and core work but are pretty spot on for what is needed for the average enthusiast, especially when most folks pick up a rapier and use nothing but wrist and forearm motions.
For your money it is a good addition to anyone interested in European martial arts. It makes a great Xmas gift.
On the back of the book it lists that
This work is based off the Capo Ferro's Gran Simulacro. All in all Windsor's interpretation and implementation of the Capo Ferro's theories are pretty dead on and will give the reader what it promises. The book is very well illustrated with side and front view pictures as well as some illustrations from Ferro's work. While this gives the reader a good look at the stances for various defenses and attacks, the side and front views do not give a great look at the importance of proper foot placement. Some over head shots or diagrams would have been useful in elaborating on some of the foot positioning but it should be noted that the book is not hurt by the lack of them by any means.You can learn:
*How to choose your sword
*Basic footwork
*Solo training
*Basic attacks and defences
*Pair drills
*Rapier and dagger exercises
*Freeplay
One of the things that stands out is that Windsor offers an brief look at what he calls "preparation exercises". In this section he stresses the importance of being in shape enough to use a blade and offers up basic exercises to prepare a person for the work. These focus on basic leg and core work but are pretty spot on for what is needed for the average enthusiast, especially when most folks pick up a rapier and use nothing but wrist and forearm motions.
For your money it is a good addition to anyone interested in European martial arts. It makes a great Xmas gift.
