Running In: Core Concept

Running in refers to closing distance with an opponent by moving past their weapon to engage in close-quarters combat. This applies universally across weapon systems, from longsword techniques involving wrestling and pommel strikes to pole arm engagements where the fighter maintains safe distance while continuing ranged attacks.

Strategic Motivations

A fighter may choose to run in when recognizing an immediate tactical advantage or when circumstances demand it. In battlefield conditions, the pressure from ranks of soldiers behind creates necessity to advance, forcing engagement regardless of initial preference.

Running In Against the Pike

Shorter weapons require running in as an essential tactic against the pike's significant reach advantage. This mixed-weapon scenario demands that the shorter-armed fighter close distance aggressively to neutralize the pike's superior range and create fighting opportunities.

Saber and Dusak Approach

The curved blade weapons employ an arc-like guard positioning to facilitate running in with practiced timing and reaction ability. The fighter then drives through this arc formation to make contact and control the pike shaft, neutralizing its threat.

Shield-Based Counter to Pike

Shields provide an alternative method for shorter-armed fighters to close the distance against pike-armed opponents. The shield's defensive coverage enables the fighter to advance safely while positioning for close-quarters combat techniques.

Learn the Art of Combat - Pike techniques #1: Pike vs shorter weapons

Björn Rüther

Quarte Parry

1 min read·5 key moments·PT6M58S video

Key Takeaways

•Running In: Core Concept
•Strategic Motivations
•Running In Against the Pike
•Saber and Dusak Approach

With weapons that are much shorter than the pike, running in is an essential part of mixed weapon fencing. Here the carrier of the shorter weapon has no choice but to run in to get past the longer weapon. In 4 examples with different weapons we try to work out some basic concepts against the extremely long pike. Even with the pike itself! Timemarks: 0:00 Start 0:27 Introduction 1:31 Pike vs Saber/Dussak 2:27 Pike vs Battle Sword 3:10 Pike vs Halbert 3:56 Pike vs Pike 4:49 Summary Frequently asked questions: Pikes only works in formation. Why you show us a Duelsituation? This has didactic reasons why techniques are also presented in isolation in the old fencing books. Martial arts concepts are difficult to understand if you let all influences and individualities flow in. Especially that of a field battle. But by the way, pikes in duels were definitely weapons for tournaments and fencing schools. What kind of pike is that? The Pike is a three-part simulator from https://jesterofblades.de/ The prototype of this pike has become a bit too wobbly. However, a certain degree of flexibility is important for safe sparring. We'll see how the final product will be. But it can be a little stiffer. Is a pike so wobbly? The pike is a little more wobbly than usual with the original. It is a sparring version for safe practice. The material is ash.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about quarte parry?

This video covers running in: core concept, strategic motivations, running in against the pike. It provides detailed instruction from Björn Rüther.

How long does it take to learn quarte parry?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 5-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.