The Association of Renaissance Martial Arts is a non profit organization focused on the rediscovery, recreation and promotion of our historical European martial arts.

We of the Portland ARMA Study Group are exploring our Western martial heritage with a focus on the combat arts of the 15th-17th centuries. We have members whose interest levels and backgrounds vary but by utilizing the ARMA method to recreate these lost arts all of our explorations are approached with a common integrity, legitimacy, and intent.

With ARMA you will not find fantasy or historical role-playing, sport fighting, or sword tag. First and foremost we at ARMA are a martial arts group. Unlike many other historical or fantasy combat groups our focus is on recreating these fighting arts with historical accuracy. Or as accurately as we can recreate without engaging in mortal combat or hopping into a time machine.

Our method combines academic research with physical application. The historical combat manuals and period resources (eg. plays, literature, art etc.) are our text books. The drills, cutting tests and sparring are our laboratory and proving grounds. Our tools include wooden wasters, steel blunts, steel sharps, and padded weapons. These tools are applied in numerous drills, cutting tests and contact sparring. All of which are done with the end goal of gaining some insight into how these martial arts were applied by our ancestors on the battlefield, dueling field, back alley, or tavern.

If you are interested in swordsmanship or any other historical European combat arts we will be more than happy to help you start your journey. The only thing you need to begin is an open mind and a willingness to learn.

When you decide to join us or if you are just curious and want to visit one of our events contact the local Study Group.