In the manuscripts of the German longsword, masters used the term “flourish" to describe how a swordsman should use the longsword and perform various actions, meaning to flow smoothly. If a swordsman can execute attacks and defenses seamlessly, it not only keeps their opponent on their toes but also appears calm and composed to onlookers.

However, as with many things, knowing is easier than doing. So, how can we make the longsword flow smoothly and continuously?

For this workshop, we have invited Coach John Liou from the Vor&Nach European Historical Martial Arts Society. He has successfully employed this fluid and agile style in numerous sword competitions, achieving great success. In this session, he will share his practice methods for achieving the “flourish" style.