East meets west in motion
Martial arts practitioners in Germany and China exchange traditions, shaping dialogue through training, philosophy, and cultural heritage.
In 2015, She co-founded the Shanghai Historical Martial Arts Club, which integrates historical European martial arts, Chinese martial arts, and other disciplines into a structured curriculum. The club now has more than 200 members, with over half studying German fencing. The curriculum includes the European longsword, the military saber, sword-and-shield techniques, and more.
"We're not just teaching how to wield a sword; we're reviving a lost physical culture and connecting it with contemporary life," She says.
While Himmet helps Germans understand the philosophy and practice of Chinese martial arts, She brings European sword traditions to Chinese practitioners.
Though separated by vast distances, the two men share a common purpose: using martial arts as a vehicle for cross-cultural dialogue. Their work shows how ancient forms — whether Eastern or Western — can cross borders, spark mutual respect, and continue to live through new generations.
