Sword Fighting With a Bleeding Disorder? Is It Possible?

The earliest known weapon to be described as a sword can be traced back to 3300 BC. Sword fighting as a sport can be also be traced back to prehistoric times, and the popular organized sport of fencing began only at the end of the 19th century.

Now, individuals can participate in historical European martial arts (HEMA), as a sport. One individual, in particular, started doing historical European martial arts about 5 years ago, as they have always loved swords and martial arts. (Martial arts can range from a 1-3 risk level on the National Hemophilia Foundation's Playing-It-Safe activity ratings table. You can find that here). This individual, Mike Metz from Southern California, as he fell in love with HEMA, was faced with the limitations of having a bleeding disorder, hemophilia A severe. According to Hema Alliance, HEMA is compromised of multiple arts through the ages, which when applied to this sport, alarming to those with bleeding disorders. Mike describes the sport of Hema as dangerous, "as the goal is to hit your opponent with a metal sword (not sharp obviously) so there are lots of bruises." Although this might not sit right with many people, especially those with a bleeding disorder like hemophilia, Mike was able to pursue stage combat (which he got into a few months ago as a result of HEMA) because of his drive, passion, and today's modern medicine.

Mike from Southern California makes sure to infuse himself before sparring or competing because of the high chance of bruises, but that doesn't stop him. He attributes his ability to pursue his hobbies to the factor medication.

Now, Mike is participating in competitive stage combat and even provided a demo for the Southern California Hemophilia Foundation Walk, as the theme was medieval. This individuals message for other hemophiliacs is, "...to absolutely pursue what they love and don’t let hemophilia hold [them] back. Obviously there are some limitations, especially if someone doesn’t have access to factor. But if that’s the case, I would urge them to reach out to their local HTC... and get help getting set up with enough factor to follow their hearts and do what they love. Whether it’s surfing, riding horses, snowboarding, etc… life is about having fun and doing what you love!" Mike Metz has yet to win a gold medal but he won't stop until he has one.

Before participating in any activity physical or sports-related talk to your hematologist, treatment center, doctor, specialist, or hospital.

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