Yes, first time sparring.

[Sir Nate]

I went to longsword practice today with MEMAG, I got to do my first sparring sension with my teacher after the initial lesson. I did miserably, but it was very enjoyable! I think one of my issues was being a bit afraid to try anything and thinking too much, as the other (and some newer members) did better than me.

[Thorsteinn]

It happens. 25 years from now you might not even remember your first time at MEMAG. You'll have so many new things happen that it will fade into the mists, so cherish the now. You will never be new again.

I've sparred in 5-6 different styles, and each time it felt less worrisome that I'd get hurt or screw up a move and more that I'd hurt the other guy or do something to embarrass my instructor.

[Sir Brian]

That is typical for the first several months. Heck some folks I know are still hesitant and over analytical of what they are doing instead of letting their instincts take over. You develop those fighting instincts with repetition of action...that is sparring. You can also do your solo drills by moving with the blade from guard to guard, making cuts and thrusts. Also working will a pell will help you develop combinations and a good sense of your measure!

[Lord Dane]

You get better as you go, Nate. Takes time to learn and more to perfect skill. You get your feet wet and get to your level of comfort and it will come. Learn basics and work up to fencing/fighting with an opponent. Always better to have a practice partner for mirroring and learning than an invisible target. Of course, you cannot hurt an inanimate object or have to worry as much. Practice basics, get strong with them. Then advance your skill level.

I use this preset for learning: Knowledge; Application; Skill. Never one before the other.

[Sir Edward]

Excellent! Those MEMAG guys are a good bunch.

But yeah, as others have said, it takes a little time for things to sink in so you don't feel overly critical or have to think too hard about what you're doing. The so-called "muscle memory" helps with this, and that only comes from repetition.

When I first started with longsword, it felt awkward (particularly with my needing to "unlearn" some habits from foil fencing), and I got pretty frustrated at times. It took me about a year to get over that initial hump.

But the good news, is that the more you handle the weapons, including doing solo-drills, the more natural it will become, until it's practically an extension of your arm.

[Sir James A]

Without brain and has the dumb, swords fighting easier, if not think.

[Sir Rodney]

Congratulations!

Remember that song “Don’t worry, be happy”?  I may sound simplistic, but that’s the key.  Your instructor will train you on the proper techniques and, after some time, things will become automatic.

I have very little HEMA experience, but I distinctly remember the day in my SCA combat experience that the other combatants on the field seemed to “slow down”.  I had a banner afternoon with my poleaxe that I treasure to this day!