Who Are We?
Founded in 2009 by Shay Roberts (below, left), the Academy of Arms Los Angeles is a non-profit school dedicated to the study and practice of the historical European martial arts (HEMA) where the integrity of our Art and the safety of our students are our top priorities.
Our Mission
At the Academy of Arms, we promote historical European martial arts through supportive, community-focused fencing classes in Glendale, California. Our goal is to revive these lost arts by increasing awareness and inspiring a passion for this rich period of history.
The Academy of Arms does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.
Our Classes
Historical fencing is the medieval predecessor of modern Olympic fencing. We approach it as a martial art, not a sport. Be advised that this is contact work, not stage combat. Students begin with plastic training weapons, advance to blunt steel, and eventually do limited work with sharps.
We teach a wide array of weapons including longsword, dagger, grappling, spear, poleaxe, halfsword, sickle, messer, sword and buckler, and staff.
Our Instructors
Jason Imboden
Jason has been studying medieval martial arts with a focus on the German longsword since 2008. Prior to his training at the Academy of Arms, he practiced Taekwondo before eventually transitioning to Kempo Karate and Jujitsu during his college years.
During his time at the Academy of Arms, Jason has earned the top student ranking and has progressed to the position of Instructor. Currently, he is a regular Instructor for Novice and Apprentice level classes.
Ian Fagan
A native of Los Angeles, Ian began his career in fencing in 1987, studying foil under the instruction of Olympic gold medalist Ion Drîmbă. Later, he studied saber, épée, SCA rapier fencing, and kenjutsu before joining the Academy of Arms.
In 2011, Ian became an Instructor at the Academy of Arms.
Paul Barolet
Paul has been practicing HEMA for 10 years, attending multiple events and medaling in several. His development as a premiere director/judge over the last 5 years was born out of a desire to offer the best calls to all fencers.
FAQ
Who can take your classes?
All adults (18+) who have signed our waiver and agree to follow our policies can take our classes.
How much do classes cost?
Presently, class dues are only $20.00 per month and are accepted via PayPal. There is no additional cost for extra classes or workshops.
Where are you located?
Classes take place outdoors in Glendale, California. Contact us for more details
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable, breathable, non-restrictive clothing. Students also have the option to purchase a school uniform shirt.
What should I bring?
If you are a new student, please bring your signed waiver on the first day of class. Otherwise, always bring water or another hydrating beverage to class, especially on hotter days.
Will gear be provided?
Yes, the school will provide basic safety gear (head/throat/hand protection) and synthetic swords for Intro and Novice classes. However, students in these classes may want to consider investing in personal sports protection as class activity intensifies.
Can I start fighting right away?
With safety being our top priority, students who wish to fight with steel weapons and/or compete for Academy of Arms in HEMA tournaments must first receive their bouting certification. At this time, only Novices and above may pursue a bouting certification. Students without bouting certifications are welcome to attend Tactics class, where they may practice sparring with synthetic weapons in a controlled combat environment.
How long does it take to rank up at your school?
Intro students are eligible to test for the rank of Novice following at least two full Intro Class cycle (5-6 weeks). Novices are eligible to test for the rank of Apprentice following at least two full cycles of the Novice Class (about 24 weeks). Preparation for the Apprentice Test, on average, can take 3-6 months.
Can Academy of Arms come to our event, present at our school, assist with film projects, etc?
When in doubt, reach out! While we cannot guarantee we will be able to participate, we’re always open to discussing potential outreach opportunities. Please direct all inquiries to info@academyofarms.com (with outreach@academyofarms.com CC’d).
“One may not be called perfect in this art, as it is likewise in others, if he does not know how to teach somebody else.”
Antonio Manciolino, 1531