Some practical approaches on spear fighting.

[hoplite14gr]

I personally believe that there might be case where underarm might be necessary. (subject of further testing)

Please see a comment by my friend Renos on the subject

<<Hi there
this video is not meant to prove a standard way of use of the spear in phalanx formation, neither to present an argument on 'the overhand vs the underhand gripping of the spear'. It is a thesis based a) on the need of a hoplite to defend himself when his shield is locked and cant offer him flexible covering, b) on the angles and the geometry of strikes when a phalanx has to face another in the first phase of close approaching, c) on body mechanics, d) on simple, universal rules of self defense that teach us not just receiving and parrying attacks with a weapon but simultaneously counter-attacking when it's possible.
The whole project presented in this video is to 'suggest' a more technical approach of using a spear in tight phalanx formation, emphasizing on its counter-attacking ability when used with the standard overhand grip.....a use that is not working with other types of gripping.
As ARMA Hellas, we experiment trying to expose the real needs in the ways of offense and defense when someone has to deal with restrictions in space, place and motion in specific phases of combat.
For the friend that is asking the following <<Very interesting concept. As an aside, how much training is required to develop accuracy with either method of stab? Is one method, by nature of the mechanics of it, more accurate?>>...
I can only say this: a) test thrusting with the spear against static targets with any kind of gripping to draw conclusions on the force of strikes b) test thrusting with the spear against moving targets with any kind of gripping to train in accuracy c) test counter-attacking with the spear with any kind of gripping against a trained companion equal in skill to test the mechanics of each type of gripping d) test using the hoplon and spear when your shield is locked by these of your companions on you left and your right, when you also have to face at least 2 opponents thrusting with spears against your upper openings.
We did nothing more than experimenting with the above and we came to the conclusionσ as presented on the video. We suggest that anyone who is interested on the same subject to try it too and give us their feedback. Even if someone is not specialized in martial arts systems, you could develop such skill ...well, with hard work of course. The time of training depends on a) talent b) previous experience of training in similar styles (shield and spear)...and it's different for every man.>>