Swordplay can be dangerous if improperly practiced.
Routines should be practiced only under the qualified supervision of a fencing instructor or by an American Society of Fight Directors instructor. Robert is using a dulled reproduction rapier blade and hilt. We don't practice lightly or carelessly, Robert's rapier is capable of killing, and Rick's is fully capable of seriously maiming. Loades' sequence is outstanding for its variety and balance, and is a wonderful all-around training exercise. Robert and I have come to practice the sequence regularly as a 'parade', a European name for what is called a 'kata' by Japanese martial artists.