Martial Arts
The London sword fighters reviving medieval combat
Schola Gladitoria — Studying ancient textbooks and techniques, the historical European martial arts community duel with centuries old systems of engagement. Mads Jensen swings a blade in an Ealing church to find out more.
Written by: Mads Jensen
In a razed Damascus refugee camp, one martial arts club holds its stance
Yarmouk Fight Club — Once the home of 200,000 Palestinians, the Yarmouk Camp was a bustling community and sanctuary, until Assad’s forces launched a deadly siege in 2013. As a small handful of returnees attempt to rebuild from the rubble, a Muay Thai gym is providing space for catharsis.
Written by: Jake Pace Lawrie
London’s Shaolin warriors are on a quest for self-mastery
Pumped up kicks — In a leafy London suburb, a group of dedicated warriors have carved out a space where they can be the best versions of themselves – mind, body and soul. Welcome to Shaolin Temple UK: a martial arts school where the path to mastery starts within.
Written by: Niall Flynn
The grandma helping Indian girls become martial art masters
A sword & a sari — At 76 years old, Meenakshi Raghavan is an unlikely national hero, challenging gender roles and teaching young women to fight sexual violence.
Written by: Eva Clifford
