Getting started has never been easier. Here's all you need to know
ACG Foundations: a speedy entry into sword fighting
To ensure you can join our regular classes safely, we've developed a special beginners course that will take you through the very basics needed for a speedy kick-start of your journey into the world of full contact armoured fighting.
Step by step learning program
Getting started has never been easier! We'll provide you with all the equipment and support needed.
This course is designed to introduce the new starters to all the main aspects of the sport in a safe beginner-friendly environment preparing them to fight others at full speed. And yes, ladies-only classes are available!
A look to the future
After you complete your on-ramp program, you will be able to join our regular training sessions and practice with other members of the team. Eventually, we'll help you try on steel and get a feel of the real thing.
After that, the world is your oyster! We'll help you source your own set of armour so you can travel the world and fight alongside us in the arena.
"Starting out in a sport like ours can be daunting. Some people simply don't know where to begin! Others might be concerned about their fitness level or worry about what they might face at their first session.
This is why we launched HMB Foundations – an introductory training program designed to give newcomers like you a simple and straightforward entry into the world of steel sports.
In the last 7 years we've helped many men and women find their way from day one to fighting in steel at world championship level. Trust me, this might be the beginning of an incredibly interesting story."
Jake Coles
Club founder
"I was very nervous before my first session, but once I turned up and met some of the ACG members I immediately felt like I had been there for ages! I would highly recommend anyone who is thinking of doing this to just come along – you won't regret it. I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to start my HMB journey with and I can't wait to step into the lists in armour alongside my new teammates."
Rhys Lewis
"My sessions with ACG quickly became the highlight of my week. Starting as an absolute beginner with no experience of any form, I was guided through by a wealth of knowledge and years of experience, taking my first steps on what has now become a lifelong passion. They made what seemed an unobtainable dream a reality. It is a privilege to join ACG and its members!"
Elliot Biggs
What, where, when?
Times
Introductory classes take place on Tuesday (ladies only) and Thursday evenings.
Location
All sessions are held in our main training hall in Gloucester.
Equipment
All men are required to bring their own groin guards. This is essential. We will provide all the rest of the equipment needed.
What to expect
The course consists of 4 sessions held on four consecutive weeks. We'll use soft protective pads and soft weapons to cover the basics needed for both 1-on-1 and group fights.