Jomsborg is divided into five Storms, North, South, East, West and Utland, each governed by a Storm Leader. A Storm has its own individual culture and approach to recreating the Viking world. Fighting styles also vary. The Storm Leaders form a Council to run Jomsborg, headed by the Jarl, who is the supreme commander. Each Storm is divided into Lags (local groups) under the command of a Styrsman. A Lag is made up of Drengir (warriors) and Household (craftsmen and non-combatants).

 
 
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Fighting styles. 

In Jomsborg we usually recognise three styles or rule systems, plus a style for performance.

 
 
 
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Western style

So-called because it has its origins in Western Europe over the last 30 years. It is a light style involving great skill and finesse. It is a competetive system with a restricted target area, notably the head is excluded. The aim is to strike the opponent on the upper legs and body (sometimes upper arms are also included). Very little armour is worn and emphasis is placed on great skill and control with the weapons. This leads to a fast and furious, highly mobile fighting style.

 
 
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Eastern style

So called because it originates in Eastern Europe, primarily Poland and Russia. This is also a competetive system with a controlled target area, with the head included. More armour is commonly worn, leading to a more blood-and-guts style, with battles characterised by their power and ferocity.

 
 
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Huscarl

Also called HEMA or Mask Fighting, is a martial art, rather than a competetion style. There are no target restrictions and the emphasis is on the realistic use of Viking Age weaponry.

 
 
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Showfighting

This is a style designed to thrill and entertain an audience. A performance is arranged with a narrative and staged to fit the type of audience in question. Expertise with the weapons means choreography is unnecessary. Improvisations and ad-lib elements ensure a freshness and immediacy and maintain a direct involvement with the public. This style also lends itself well to filmwork.

 
 
 

JOIN US

If you have an adventurous spirit and an interest in the Vikings, then you could join the ranks of Jomsborg. Contact a Storm Leader to learn more.