Belgian Tournament Rules

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These rules were in effect in various forms in Northern France and Belgium from at least 1540s. It can be considered a 'King of the Hill' game where all comers are designated Champions.

One person is designated 'King' and has the power called 'after-stroke.' When the King is struck a clean hit, he has one last chance to hit back with the after-stroke. He may take one step with his after-stroke. If he hits, he wins the bout. This after-stroke must be delivered immediately, without delay, or it is lost. If it is parried or evaded, then the Champion wins the bout and becomes King.

• Each bout consists of a single round.

• Both cut and thrust are allowed.

• Valid target area is above the belt and above the elbows (ie no hands or forearms).

• No corps-a-corps is allowed; no grappling or pommel strikes.

• Only two-handed technique (no one-handed or half-sword).

• If you lose your weapon, you lose the bout. If you fall, the bout is played over.

• If the King hits the Champion a clean hit, he wins the bout and remains King. (next Champion takes the field)

• If the Champion hits the King with a clean hit, the King has one last chance to hit back with the after-stroke. He may take one step with his after-stroke. If he hits, he wins the bout. This after-stroke must be delivered immediately, without delay, or it is lost. If it is parried or evaded, then the Champion wins the bout and becomes King.

• If there is a double hit, the highest hit wins (head wins over chest, etc). If it is the King who has the highest hit, he wins. If it is the Champion, the King still gets his after-stroke (see above rule).