GFFG Basic Meyer Quarterstaff Series 01: Body & weapon mechanics Pt 1

While the handling of lighter weapons like rapier or longsword can be reminiscent of solo dancing, handling heavier weapons like the quarterstaff, halberd or Zweihänder is more like partnered dancing or figure skating, where your weapon is your partner, both moving in perfect synchronicity. The need for proper mechanics and timing is greatly emphasized with these heavy and powerful weapons and with good mechanics you more guide your weapon, following it with your body and often just nudging it into a new trajectory, as a dancing partner.

Unfortunately not many practice Meyer's polearms although every Meyer student should. For that reason I have decided to start recording a very informal series of videos showing some of the core principles of the mechanics and footwork involved, to help get people started, possibly digging deeper into techniques and more advanced concepts in an extended series.

So get yourself a staff, either a regular bo, or an ash or oak staff of about 180-22cm x 3cm in size. Oak is more fun as it is heavier, but ash safer for later sparring.

NOTE: One small comment on an artefact in the movement:

When I twist the staff down towards my left I wrongly move the leading foot back while it should be planted on the ground, with the weight at the balls of my feet so the foot can twist with the movement. This is how I teach it.

I am not sure why this artefact came up here, but I hurt my knee quite badly a couple of weeks ago, making it unstable and painful, for which reason I had wrapped it up tightly when we shot the video. Too tightly, even.

So, when you practice this, try to keep the lead foot in position, not pulling it back as you twist.