Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gotham Swords / GEMAC?

Gotham Swords is a not for profit social club that offers training in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) and Historical Fencing. Gotham European Martials Arts Collective, or GEMAC, is the formal “government name” of Gotham Swords.  

We offer training in Historical European Martial Arts and Fencing from a variety of sources, including Longsword, Messer, Sword & Buckler, LED Saber, and more! To see what courses are currently available check out our schedule on BookWhen.

What is HEMA?

Historical European Martial Arts, or HEMA, is the study of a variety of historical fighting systems and styles associated with the European continent. This can include a number of different weapons including wrestling, longswords, daggers, etc.

Where are you located?

We run in-person classes at Ripley Grier Studios in Midtown Manhattan, NY. More information can be found on the schedule page

Class rooms are subject to change. Please arrive at the space and ask the front desk on the 2nd floor which room we are in that day.


Please note there are multiple Ripley Grier locations in NYC!

What classes are you currently offering?

For detailed information about our currently offerings please visit our Schedule on BookWhen.

Do you offer kids or teen classes?

No, unfortunately we are currently unable to offer classes to individuals under the age of 18.

I'm new, what should I do?

If you are new or just beginning your Swordsmanship journey, visit our Get Started page.

I've done HEMA elsewhere, what classes should I take?

If you have previous HEMA experience feel free to register for an All Level, Intermediate, or Advanced class appropriate to your previous experience and the amount of protective training gear you have available.  Don't forget to check class listings for gear requirements before booking!

How do I book a class?

We use BookWhen to manage our class schedule and bookings.  Visit gemac.bookwhen.com to reserve your spot on our training floor today!

I need to cancel or transfer my booking, what do I do?

Refunds for classes are available up to 12 hours before class.  Please use the BookWhen portal to cancel or transfer any classes.  If you require additional help, please contact us via Discord or e-mail.

What's the deal with the HEMA Alliance?

The HEMAA provides insurance and other resources that allow us to operate as a club.

If you decide to study with Gotham Swords for more than two months you will need to purchase an In-network Discounted Alliance Membership ($26) to continue taking classes. 


Please make sure to renew your membership when it expires, as insurance only covers active members.

Where should I buy gear?

Review our Guide to Buying Gear for detailed information about purchasing protective equipment.

I'm a Teacher and would love to join you.

Awesome!  If you are an experienced teacher and would like to work with us to offer classes, seminars, or events please email contact@gemac.club.

How is Gotham Swords dealing with Covid-19?

I'm a Student / Teacher, can I practice outdoors or in the park?

When hosting a group meet-up, class, general practice, or workshop outdoors there are additional considerations that must be kept in mind at all times.

ALWAYS REMEMBER: 

When you fence in public, your behavior is a reflection on everyone in our group and the group itself.

Who is currently running the club?

General Secretary - Josh Wickman

Archivist - Katie Meade

Operations Coordinator - Hildo Biersma

Treasurer - Joe Ceirante

Program Coordinator - Peter Haas