Larp fighting basics (for 1v1)

Today we are going to talk about how to fight 1v1 and everything you need to know about it! Well, the basics at least. This video is to help larpers who fight with boffers learn the basics of 1v1 combat, and combat in general.
This video will not cover how to play!
We go over that in different videos that are more tailored to your larp, but this video will teach you how to fight more efficiently, better, and will by itself put you ahead of people who aren't that serious about fighting.
So with that, I hope that you enjoy and learn something!
Timestamps
0:32 Body mechanics
4:14 florentine
6:02 sword and board
7:56 Pole
9:53 footwork
11:25 feints
13:38 combos
This has been Wizo and until next time keep larping!

[@Rob_IE]

For me, the way shots were described was similar to the description of a line. Smallest distance between your sword and your enemy is a direct shot from your basic defensive stance. Pulling it back for more power not only highly telegraphs your intent but also takes more time than the quick and straight smack that is actually recommended. Pulling your weapon back for more power also forces it to leave it's defensive position between you and your enemy. It's why the people teaching me said that it's "throwing a shot" not "swinging" one. Legend has it that the mighty Jercules could throw any and every single shot with the same wind-up, making any kind of shot preemption basically impossible. Great video!

[@dylanroth2720]

Great lessons, taught me a new combo! Will have to work on using my hips more for shots as well.

[@larpacademia2662]

Glad you like the move! And yes, hips are just a bi-product of proper body mechanics and footwork. If you work on those two, then it should be golden for you!

[@cyrusmann5443]

larpers after seeing a polearm poke .................................................Aa a A a A a a aaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaa "hides in bed sheets"

[@Rob_IE]

One thing I'd add in is that usually the smaller the shield, the more offensive it must be. Large shields are obviously the best at covering and protecting the body the closer they are to it. Medium sized shields can be used more offensively, but in the end I'd recommend a person still keep it as close to the body as possible (strap and punch) and simply swing the leg back if shots come towards it. A smaller shield like a buckler should definitely be used to meet the opponents weapon before it comes near your body as just keeping a buckler close to the body isn't as effective.

[@larpacademia2662]

True! Small shields are best used as punches because of this. I honestly don't know why you would have a small strap shield unless it is just a buckler. As for offense, you can be offensive with a medium punch shield but I do agree. You are generally less offensive with a bigger shield since 1. you don't need to be due to coverage, and 2 you would have to move a bigger object/have less angles to press with. I didn't want to cover size, just the basics of punch vs strap. The video is already long, but your points are very valid for a more indepth look at shield size and what type of shield is better.

[@Rob_IE]

@@larpacademia2662 When it comes to strap shields, personally I think the only one that really matters (besides smalls strapped to arms to cover them) would be the low strap shield for S+B tourney fights and even then, it's nice to make the shoulder wrap a harder shot but I just feel like the loss of mobility from a leg shot really prevents you from controlling the flow of the battle. True that legs aren't as necessary and a should wrap is usually just insta-death but your mobility is your lifeline! Plus if you're at a length disadvantage (whether from weapon length or arm length) it's basically pacifying you to be legged.

[@larpacademia2662]

@@Rob_IE True to a certain extent! For weapons that have reach taking out a leg is very good, but definitely not a game winning move if you are facing a sword and board who can maneuver in their larp. There are some larps where being legged is far worse and others where it actually provides an increase in defense where the attacker most of the time gets impatient and dies. There are many intricacies for S&B, but we were once again trying to introduce basics. You can go so much deeper as you are already pointing out : P

[@Rob_IE]

@@larpacademia2662 You're absolutely right. Can't wait to see more videos! Very good resource and I hope to one day meet on the field!

[@larpacademia2662]

@@Rob_IE Would be great to meet you on the field as well one day my friend!

[@michaelwoods8654]

Nice video. Thank you kind sir.

[@2011theones]

Larp is cool

[@TheReaperOfChess]

you went over S&B but what about some pole arm and etc tactics and strategies

[@davedave8263]

In my LARP, hitting feet counts as a hit. If it were real combat, I would either hit my opponent in the head, or I would walk into them and knock them over. However, we have to strike under the shoulders, and we play lightest touch, meaning that I cannot walk into them. What would you suggest as a counter to a low leg or foot strike?

[@bureaucratbayonet]

Your range is furthest in a straight line from your shoulder so if they're going low they have to get closer. Learn to gauge distance if you can step just out of their range as they strike and deliver a counter strike or even just lift your leg. Just my thoughts.

[@watson82]

Moving around and counter