Faicseanaíocht Stances
There are many different stances that can be used when fighting with sticks. In the recreated style known as Faicseanaíocht, we use four of them: The Offensive, Defensive, Invitational and the Two-handed. We will discuss each of these stances and their uses in the articles below.
Offensive Stance, Front View
Offensive Stance, Side View
The offensive stance is the main stance used in this style of cudgelplay. it offers good defense and offense as well as being useful in very close range where the buta(butt) of the stick can be used to gouge and in pressure point attacks.
In this stance the weapon is held in the lead hand. Rear hand is held high to help catch some strikes from either stick or fist. The buta of the stick is pointed at the opponent as well as the lead toe. The body is kept upright and the stick is held high and horizontal near the head. The stick must be just slightly above the height of the top of your head(or higher depending on your preference but not lower) in order to make strikes on the opposite side less telegraphic.
Defensive Stance
This stance is very close to the Offensive stance in many ways but is designed more for defense than offense. The stick is held lower, somewhat covering the centerline and the body is somewhat curled to make a smaller target. This stance is ideal when facing a series of attacks...it is a bit harder to attack with power from this stance without too much telegraphic action but it can be done with lots of practice.
Two-Handed Grip
The two-handed grip is often used when in very close distance. The hands are held towards the ends of the stick with the middle of the stick used to block incoming blows from weapon or fist(I actually find this stance very usefull when facing and unarmed or knife wielding attacker). Attacks can be made from either side with little warning or telegraphic motion. Height of the stick can vary depending on the situation. Generally I like to keep it around eye level..just above or just below. Either foot can take the lead in this stance. Care must be given to protect your hands in this stance but as long as you know where they are and keep that in mind, it can be a very useful stance.
More info on a similar stance can be found on the Uisce Beatha Bata Rince site
Invitational Stance
This stance is rarely used but can surprise un unknowing opponent almost every time. In this stance the weapon is held in the rear hand and the lead side of the body is offered up as a target. When an attack is made, the defender shifts his entire lead side backward and out of range while simultaneously launching his own attacl. It is similar in many ways to George Silvers Open Ward and Zornhau from German longsword.
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