Taking a holistic approach to martial arts training by adding cutting to our practice

Weapon: Longsword

Source: System agnostic

This lecture will discuss the value of cutting and how to apply cutting to our practice holistically as historical martial artists. By stating the goals of and approaches to cutting we use cutting as a functional and valuable training method. This lecture will also offer suggestions for participating in cutting despite great limitations (expense, law, space, etc.)

Skill level of Participants: Any skill level
Needed Equipment: an open mind 🙂

About the trainer – Brittany Reeves

Brittany Saint Leafy is a respected historical fencing instructor and a prominent figure in the modern HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) community. With a degree in medieval history and a minor in art history, she brings a scholarly foundation to her martial practice, blending academic rigor with practical expertise. Her work emphasizes historical accuracy, technical precision, and a deep appreciation for the cultural context of European martial traditions.

Based in Arizona, Brittany teaches locally while maintaining a strong national and international presence. She has been invited to instruct at many of the world’s leading HEMA events, including SoCal Swordfight, Swordtrip; The Gathering, Swordfish, CombatCon, IGX, and the Vancouver International Swordplay Symposium. At these events, she presents workshops, cutting seminars, and technical classes that attract students from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

A multi-medalist in competitive cutting, she has distinguished herself as both a skilled practitioner and a dedicated athlete. Her competitive success reflects not only technical mastery but also years of disciplined study and physical training. Brittany’s understanding of blade mechanics, edge alignment, and timing make her one of the standout cutters in the sport.