This weeks training was given over to covering a tour de force of basics as we made our way through the competency based training exercises that build up to our annual certification.

Making our way through the principles of punching, kicking and kneeing everyone in attendance had a thoroughly good time. Being shown the technique, practicing it through with a partner and then having the return carried out on them. Revising the technical elements was the order of the day, so thespians had a relax and those of us not so brave to act fully had a reprieve, but acting and stage fight go hand in hand, so the reprieve will only be for so long.

The evening was finished with a none historical look at the basics of sword attack and defence, with sets of static fives being completed, again looking for technical accuracy. The first time for sword work with one of those present it was interesting going as they learnt to relax with the weapon and rely more upon technique than strength.

Next week we will continue with the competency based training in the first half of the session and then break out into training and rehearsals for the coming gladiator event at Stevenage.