You don't need to be a medieval knight. But after trying it, you might wish you were.
Historical Fencing is a unique martial art that revives European combat techniques based on historical treaties and manuals that have survived to this day. Swords, daggers, spears and staffs, each weapon with its own technique, its own history and its own rigour.

In Porto, GEMAC's historical fencing academy is based at the Estádio Universitário do Porto and offers practical and dynamic fencing training sessions, where technical learning meets recreational combat in a safe, controlled environment built on strong camaraderie. HEMA Porto is an active and welcoming community, perfect for those starting from scratch or looking to deepen their practice.

Try your first class for free and find out if the sword is for you — sign up today.

What you will learn in fencing classes in Porto
- Armed Technique: handling of different historical weapons, with a primary focus on the sword
- Physical Conditioning: improved agility, reflexes, endurance and psychological focus
- Historical Rigour: understanding the role of the sword as a historical object and applying techniques described in centuries-old manuals
- Combat: gradual progression towards recreational or competitive combat in a safe environment

Who are the medieval fencing classes in Porto for?
For anyone with the willingness and determination to learn — regardless of gender, age or prior experience. Beginner fencing classes always start from scratch, adapting the teaching to the pace of each participant. No prior martial arts experience is required.

Whatever your starting point, there is a place for you in Porto fencing training. Sign up now and come and try it.

Price Includes
- 2 classes per week — €35/month
- 1st class free, no commitment

Price Does Not Include
- Registration and insurance (value to be confirmed at the time of enrolment)

About GEMAC
The Grupo de Esgrima Medieval e Artes de Combate (GEMAC) is a group dedicated to the study and practice of Medieval Fencing and Historical Combat Arts. They promote HEMA in an environment of healthy camaraderie and fellowship, where history and combat meet.

More Information
If you have any more questions send us a message via whatsapp through this link.

Contact WOU: 918 136 805

1. What exactly is Historical Fencing (HEMA)?
A: HEMA stands for Historical European Martial Arts. It is a martial art that revives European combat techniques based on historical treaties and manuals written between the 14th and 17th centuries. Unlike modern Olympic fencing, HEMA works with real historical weapons such as longswords, daggers, spears and staffs, following the original techniques documented by the master swordsmen of the time.

2. What is the difference between Historical Fencing and Olympic fencing?
A: They are completely different disciplines. Olympic fencing is a modern sport with specific competition rules and stylised weapons. Historical Fencing (HEMA) focuses on the faithful reconstruction of medieval and Renaissance European combat techniques, based on historical documents. The range of weapons is much broader and the approach is simultaneously martial, historical and cultural.

3. Do I need prior martial arts experience to start?
A: No. Classes in Porto are perfectly adapted to welcome beginners. Learning always starts with the basic fundamentals of posture, footwork and weapon handling, following the pace and physical condition of each participant.

4. How does the free first class work?
A: The first class is completely free and with no commitment whatsoever. It is the ideal opportunity to get to know the space at the Estádio Universitário do Porto, the practitioners and experience the fundamentals of the discipline before deciding to sign up. Simply register and show up.

5. Do I need to buy equipment straight away?
A: No. The basic training equipment, synthetic training swords and fencing masks, is provided by the group for the first months of practice. The acquisition of personal equipment and more advanced protective gear is done gradually, as your practice evolves.

6. Is HEMA safe?
A: Yes. Safety is the main pillar of the discipline. Training sessions are carried out under supervision, using specific protective equipment and weapons designed for training. Free combat only takes place once the practitioner has already mastered the defensive techniques and weapon control.

7. What should I wear for the first training sessions?
A: For the initial classes, comfortable sportswear that allows freedom of movement, a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms are perfect. Clean sports footwear suitable for indoor practice is essential. The group will advise on specific equipment as your practice progresses.

8. Is Historical Fencing suitable for women?
A: Absolutely. The discipline is practised by men and women on equal terms. Technique and strategy carry far more weight than brute strength, making HEMA an accessible and stimulating martial art for anyone regardless of gender.