ISMAC Bio Page for Guy Windsor

I began regular martial arts lessons in 1985, practicing Korean karate at the Gaberone Golf club, and took up sport fencing at school in 1987, specialising in the foil for four years before adding the sabre. In 1992 I enrolled at Edinburgh University, where studies in English Literature, Biology and Spanish took a back seat to my immersion in the martial arts then available: T'ai Chi Chuan, Okinawan Kobudo, Shukokai Karate and Aikido. I also studied fencing at the University club, and represented the University on a few occasions. In 1993-4 I was in charge of sabre training for the club. During my first year at Edinburgh University, I met other sword enthusiasts, and in 1994 we formed the Dawn Duellists Society. I was also instrumental in setting up the British Federation of Historical Swordplay in 1999.

I first came to Helsinki, Finland, on a student exchange in 1994-1995. After returning home, I completed my MA in English Literature, and began work as a cabinet maker and antiques restorer, while teaching fencing at the DDS. In September 2000 I decided to teach swordsmanship full-time. In March 2001, I opened The School of European Swordsmanship in Helsinki. It has since grown to 8 locations in Finland, with others in Germany, Sweden and Singapore.

My first book, The Swordsman's Companionwas published in 2004, and was followed by The Duellist's Companion in 2006, and The Little Book of Push-Ups in 2009.

I have conducted research into most of the recorded swordsmanship styles between 1300 and 1800, which forms the basis of the School's curriculum. A summary of the primary weapons and systems covered at the school can be found here, and the detailed syllabus here.

I divide my time between my own training, teaching at my salle in Helsinki, and taking workshops across Finland and abroad. When I have time to spare from parenting, research, teaching, and training, I enjoy traditional bowmaking, cabinet-making, archery, riding, shooting, and reading.