Introduction to Longsword Stances
This instructional segment covers the fundamental stances essential for longsword combat. Understanding proper stance mechanics is critical for both offensive capability and defensive stability. The instructor will demonstrate five core stances used in historical European martial arts tournaments.
High Guard (Vom Tag)
The High Guard presents an aggressive, intimidating posture with hands elevated and blade held at 30-45 degrees. The stance accommodates either foot forward and naturally facilitates feinting attacks from multiple angles. The elevated hand position creates a deceptive, cat-like appearance while maintaining strike power.
Right Guard (Rechenstadt) - Proper Mechanics
The Right Guard requires the cross guard positioned at shoulder height with hands never dropping below nipple level, as lower positioning delays strikes. The blade point should remain centered between the shoulder blades without excessive lateral deviation. Blade placement on the shoulder is optional, but the guard itself must remain crisp and defined.
Left Guard (Rechenstadt) - Wrist Considerations
The Left Guard maintains similar principles to the Right Guard but requires slight wrist angle adjustment to avoid strain. The point remains directed toward the opponent, slightly inward when necessary. The right foot typically advances forward in this position, creating a balanced defensive structure.
Ox Guard (Ochs) - Positioning Variants
The Ox Guard features a crossed-hand position with straightened blade, adaptable from high to middle placements depending on tactical needs. Practitioners may position either edge forward and adjust hand depth based on whether stabbing or cutting priority is required. The guard accommodates flexible blade angles while maintaining point control toward the opponent.
Left Ox Guard - Defensive Angles
The Left Ox Guard positions hands diagonally upward and away from the face, generally lower than its right counterpart. Hand elevation adjusts contextually, though most situations benefit from middle-height placement. This stance provides balanced defense against both overhead and lateral attacks.
Longpoint (Extended Guard)
The Longpoint extends the blade forward with elbows unlocked and arms comfortable, creating an annoying, controlling distance. Either foot may advance, allowing tactical flexibility. This guard excels at disrupting opponent rhythm and forcing defensive responses.
Low Guard (Schrankhut) - Advanced Application
The low Schrankhut guard, held with thumb grip and maximum forearm tension, effectively baits opponent attacks for counter-responses. Tension maintenance allows explosive transition into kumpal (grappling) or counterattacking techniques. This position sacrifices some defensive readiness against fast overhead attacks but creates significant offensive opportunity.
Foundational Stance Summary
These five primary stances—High Guard, Right Guard, Left Guard, Ox Guard, and Longpoint—provide the essential framework for longsword combat. Mastering these mechanics enables practitioners to progress to advanced techniques and tactical variations. Additional stances exist, but understanding these fundamentals ensures proper foundation for continued training.
How to Longsword vol. 4: Stances (part I)
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to Longsword Stances
- •High Guard (Vom Tag)
- •Right Guard (Rechenstadt) - Proper Mechanics
- •Left Guard (Rechenstadt) - Wrist Considerations
So just a short description of the most basic stances. I consider the lower stances to be more difficult to use, the Schrankhut being the easiest among them, and will make another episode where I talk a bit more about the other stances (Pflug, Alber, Eisenpfort, Wechsler, Schlüssel, Zornhut).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard winden?
This video covers introduction to longsword stances, high guard (vom tag), right guard (rechenstadt) - proper mechanics. It provides detailed instruction from HEMAreviews.
How long does it take to learn standard winden?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard winden?
The low Schrankhut guard, held with thumb grip and maximum forearm tension, effectively baits opponent attacks for counter-responses. Tension maintenance allows explosive transition into kumpal (grappling) or counterattacking techniques. This position sacrifices some defensive readiness against fast overhead attacks but creates significant offensive opportunity.
