These rules exist to preserve the integrity and values of the Nashville School of Historical Fencing as well as for the safety and enjoyment of all members and students. All students are expected to be fully aware of our code of conduct.

Training & equipment

1. All students are expected to arrive punctually and ready to train at the appointed time.

2. Appropriate athletic clothing and shoes are required during class.

3. Everyone should be courteous and respectful to one another and welcoming to new students.

4. Students are expected to follow all instructions and not interrupt instructors while speaking or giving demonstrations.

5. Students are expected to fully participate in all class activities including warm-up, conditioning and drilling exercises unless for medical/health reasons previously discussed with instructors. If students are unable to participate in certain physical exercises, alternative exercises will be given. 

6. Students are encouraged to give constructive feedback to one another during class, however, they must refrain from teaching other students unless asked for assistance by instructors. Teaching is the role of the instructors and coaches.

7. Everyone should aspire to be a good training partner for one another, this means giving full participation during all training activities, being co-operative during drills, challenging one another constructively and maintaining a positive attitude.

8. Safety is a priority. Adequate control should always be exhibited during all training activities. Any use of excessive force during drilling or sparring will be met with disciplinary action by instructors and will not be tolerated.

9. Black is our school color of uniforms (Fencing jacket, pants, mask). Our uniform should be free of decorations, as students advance, a school patch and other rank patches may be awarded. We prefer that our fencing skills be the predominant focus and expression, not our decorations.

10. All equipment including protective gear and training weapons must be approved by NSHF instructors. Before purchasing equipment make sure to check our guidelines.

11. Training weapons should be treated with respect and care as if they are real weapons. They should be maintained and free of any burrs and nicks which could cause injury.

12. Intentional attacks to the groin with or without a weapon during sparring are expressly forbidden, even with wearing a protective cup. 

13. Everyone should help tidy up and put equipment back in place after training sessions.

Culture

14. Students should adhere to a code of mutual respect and honor towards one another. We are reviving knightly arts of combat, and with this, it is our aim to develop ourselves in body, mind and spirit. We aspire to strengthen our bodies, sharpen our minds and cultivate a warrior spirit. Thus we hold strong character and virtue in high esteem. 

15. NSHF is A-political, thus any form of political and/or social movement patches/apparel are not allowed on any parts of uniforms, jackets, masks, etc. We are very proud that our school is not a place to promote any form of division through social/political agendas, regardless of persuasion. We Firmly believe in keeping our school free of political and social movement promotion and expression. HEMA is essentially a hobby for everyone and it is our aim to not allow any forms of division that will corrupt or take enjoyment away from our focus and purpose.

16. As is common among all martial arts, respect and humility are a paramount aspect of our club culture. This extends beyond how we carry ourselves but also to our Presentation - uniforms, jackets and fencing equipment. No vulgar or arrogant slogans, patches, etc are to be present on our uniforms. 

17. Everyone is welcome regardless of Gender, race, sexual orientation or beliefs.

18. Though we highly encourage developing one’s competitive abilities, a learning mindset instead of a competitive mindset is expected during most training, drills and sparring unless specifically noted. This allows for better skill development and is mutually beneficial for all training partners. 

19. Any form of harassment will not be tolerated, action will be taken by instructors.

20. Excessive swearing, arguing, displays of anger, undue aggression, deliberately ignoring instructors, ‘teaching’ without authorization or any other disreputable behavior will not be tolerated and may result in immediate dismissal from the class or expulsion from the school.

21. All members should be good representatives for the school- during training, events and tournaments.