• Skip to main content

Academy of Western Martial Arts

  • Location
  • FAQ & Resources

FAQ & Resources

Are you currently accepting new members?

Yes! New members are welcome to sign up by filling out the form at the bottom of our site.
We are also currently accepting additional private training clients.

What are you doing about COVID-19?

We are carefully running practices.
Vaccination, or an equivalent, doctor-approved alternative is required.
See our COVID-19 Safety Policies.

What do you train?

Mixed Weapon Martial Arts (MWMA). MMA with weapons. Weapon-based sport combat.
We blend a variety of systems to train better fighters without the bull. We aren’t limited to Western/Eastern/whatever. Use what works, toss what doesn’t.

Is this for self-defense?

We don’t teach self-defense. This is a combat sport, not modern combatives. As such, we make no claims that anything you learn during practice will help you defend yourself “on da streetz”.

Who can participate, and when?

Group training is for adults 18+.
Private training is available for anyone 14yrs or older.

Can I observe before participating?

Absolutely. Just swing by on any practice day. See our Austin schedule.

What should I wear or bring to my first practices?

Clothes that are suitable for athletic activity (stretching, lunging, etc.), closed-toe shoes, and bring your own water.

When do I start sparring?

Beginners are usually allowed to do controlled sparring with their coach from Day 1 if they wish.

Do you use real, metal swords?

We use blunt, flexible steel or bamboo depending on your skill level, as assessed by the coaches.

Is this fencing?

This is a combat sport with weapons.
All sword-, staff-, dagger-, etc.-fighting can fall under the historic umbrella term of “fencing”.
We do not teach Modern Olympic Fencing (foil, saber, epee).

Can you teach me HEMA?

Yes. Our Head Coach teaches HEMA as a study through private training.


Equipment We Recommend

Most protective gear and training tools are NOT suited to Mixed Weapon Martial Arts (MWMA) training. We use specially designed equipment to simulate unarmored weapon combat as closely as possible while still remaining as safe as possible. Click the button below to see our list of recommended equipment.

Recommended Equipment List

Looking for More Info? Maybe We Can Help!

Austin, TX - Copyright © 2022 - Academy of Western Martial Arts, LLC