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What is Indy Lightsaber Academy?

This is a question I get asked multiple times a week and at every event. "What is Indy Lightsaber Academy?"
 Most of the time the answer goes a little something like this…
"It's class where we teach you how to use a lightsaber. Based on real world martial arts, the class focuses on control and skill and less flips and spins. Ages 10 and up preferred. No experience or equipment is required. We hold class weekly and are located in downtown Indianapolis at the City Way YMCA"



But that is just a description, and for the most part satisfies people's curiosity. But really, what is Indy Lightsaber Academy? Why do we exist, why do people come and enjoy what we have to offer? What are we doing that's different.

The real answer?

It's a discipline
Make no mistake, what you are learning is a martial art. These are not made up forms based off the movies. These are forms that include centuries of martial arts and infinite complexity. Thanks to Michael Tucker and his tireless efforts to bring HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) to life through lightsabers. We have created an experience that allows you to skillfully and safely learn how to use a weapon in both stage combat and martial arts settings.
This requires patience, practice, time, physical ability and an open mind to grow in skill. These are valuable traits to develop for not only lightsaber combat, but for life.

It's a way to connect
How many times have you looked at your phone today? For most this is almost like asking "how many times did your heart beat?". We live in a world where technology has greatly enhanced our wellbeing and at other times severely shunts it. But for 60 minutes every Tuesday, 20-30+ people leave their phones and worries aside and interact in a way that most of us haven't since being a kid. And through this, friendships are formed and families bond.

Whether you are looking to make new friends, or find a common interest with your children. Indy Lightsaber Academy has been a catalyst for many of these opportunities. I myself have met one of my best friends through this group and became closer with countless more. And I doubt any of that would have happened without the class.

It's your story

 Everybody comes to class for different reasons. A lot of people come because it's fun and a good workout. Or because they always wanted to learn how to use a lightsaber or just sword fight. The reasons are endless and almost never the same.

You might be surprised to find out that no body dresses up like Jedi during our classes. In fact, the mere mention of Star Wars is not as common as you might think. This is because you are the one doing these things. Not an imaginary character that uses the Force. But the same person that worked 8 hours in an office. Many times the people who claim "I'm no good at sports", find their niche.

Perhaps the best way to sum everything up is to introduce Nancy P. She's a mother of 3 and lives in Columbus, Indiana. To say that she was reluctant her first class would be an understatement. But she quickly found out that she wasn't bad and that for at least 60 minutes once a week, the worries of the world were forgotten. So she came back and is now one of our more dedicated students. Not because she has dreams of being "Darth Nancy" or wanted to complete her costume. But because of the meaning and effort she put into the class.


Now I knew our group would be successful. As in, people would come and we'd teach them lightsaber stuff for a while. I was 100% certain I wanted to do it. But I never would have guessed the impact it'd have on people. And for that I am deeply humbled and immensely proud to be a part of this.


If you'd like to know more, or see other cool pictures like the ones in this blog. Visit our Facebook page.

Next up--- What to expect from your first class

Until then, stay cool and use the force and stuff.
Doug T.


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