Text
A type of unarmed combat known as Ringen (from the German Ring Kunst, meaning art of wrestling) is one of the oldest martial systems widespread in medieval Europe.
In an effort to defeat the opponent, the wrestler did not rely so much on brute strength as on a combat strategy that used the whole body, aiming to throw the opponent off balance and bring him to the ground. Kicks, holds and strikes with fists or the edge of the hand were often aimed at the joints. Attacks on the eyes or finger-breaking were also not uncommon.
Ringen was taught in swordfighting schools, where medieval masters placed great emphasis on comprehensive schooling in combat. One of those who wrote extensively about refining Ringen techniques was Johannes Liechtenauer, the master of one of the most prominent swordfighting schools of the late Middle Ages, located in Nuremberg.
Artwork
No Comments