VBHF is a non-profit dedicated to the research and practice of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) as recorded in texts written by practitioners and masters of the time. Through a combination of academic study, technical practice, and sparring, we seek to recreate an effective style of combat consistent with historical practices.

VBHF is wholly dedicated to ensuring that members are enjoying themselves in their pursuit of the art. We seek to achieve this through clear and concise instruction, fun and engaging practice material, and individualized practice pacing. Members are welcome to be as dedicated or as casual as they wish to be.

VBHF strongly believes that students should be comfortable to express dissenting opinion in the interpretation of technique and exercise practice. Constructive criticism is welcome as a helpful mechanism for improving student experience.

Why VBHF?

• Improving Muscular and Cardiovascular Fitness - Fighting with weapons at any intensity is not exactly light work. Some of the more complex techniques can target muscle groups missed by more standard workout routines.
• Relieving Stress - Few things are as satisfying after a stressful work week as hitting something with a sword.
• Training at Your Own Pace - VBHF does not require contracts and offers individual class pricing. Members will never be expected to or discouraged from attending events outside of regular practice and will not be pestered to attend class if they aren't feeling up to it.

• History - HEMA is just as much an academic pursuit as it is a physical one. Interested members can spend countless hours pouring over the dozens of historical manuscripts to learn not only fighting styles and techniques, but also about the historical context they were written in.
• Expanding Your Martial Knowledge- Already a member of another HEMA club or student of another martial arts school altogether? Our low monthly rates, individual class rates and flexible schedule mean that you can drop by whenever you want without interfering with class or your other pursuits.

An Inclusive Environment

VBHF is a proud supporter of Fighters Against Racism, an organization founded by London Longsword's David Rawlings in the UK.

From the FAR website:
FAR is a group for martial artists of all kinds who want to take a stand against racism and ensure that anyone can practice our arts and be part of the community without fear of discrimination."