Introduction to Hand Defense Recovery
This lesson addresses recovery of initiative after an opponent delivers a medzano (hand cut) in longsword fencing. The fencer must either parry by lowering the hands with the weapon held approximately vertical, or defend by cutting over the opponent's blow. In either case, the counterattack typically employs a thrust targeting the opponent's chest or neck.
Footwork and Parrying Mechanics
Maintaining a stationary position while parrying facilitates easier counterattack execution but increases vulnerability to feints. Conversely, stepping backward provides superior defensive coverage overall, though it complicates delivering the riposte. The choice between these defensive postures depends on tactical assessment of the opponent's tendencies.
Defending Against the Counterattack
Opponents commonly respond to a thrust riposte by raising their arms to protect the face and eyes—a natural human defensive response observed particularly among beginner and intermediate fencers under pressure. When an opponent employs this arm-raising defense, attacking the forearms from below presents the most effective counter-response.
Executing the Sotano Cut to the Arms
The fencer should deliver a manduito sotano (downward cut) to the opponent's forearm while moving laterally toward their own left side (the opponent's right side if both fencers are right-handed). This lateral movement toward the outside line increases offensive effectiveness and prepares for subsequent defensive requirements. The strike need not interrupt the opponent's ability to continue attacking.
Backup Defense and Positioning
Every offensive action must be supported by a prepared defensive response. After landing the sotano to the arm, the fencer retreats the hands into posto di donna (lady's position), establishing an immediate parry against the opponent's follow-up action. Maintaining lateral movement toward the opponent's side during both attack and defense maximizes defensive coverage against any subsequent action, particularly reverse cuts.
HEMA: Counter the Attack - Thrust and Cut Combination
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to Hand Defense Recovery
- •Footwork and Parrying Mechanics
- •Defending Against the Counterattack
- •Executing the Sotano Cut to the Arms
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about hema counter?
This video covers introduction to hand defense recovery, footwork and parrying mechanics, defending against the counterattack. It provides detailed instruction from Federico Malagutti HEMA.
How long does it take to learn hema counter?
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.
What are the key details for finishing hema counter?
The fencer should deliver a manduito sotano (downward cut) to the opponent's forearm while moving laterally toward their own left side (the opponent's right side if both fencers are right-handed). This lateral movement toward the outside line increases offensive effectiveness and prepares for subsequent defensive requirements. The strike need not interrupt the opponent's ability to continue attacking.
