Europe's France and the Netherlands are known for their massive lightsaber training, and the French recognize it as a real sport. However, you do not need to venture to the EU for this, as Mexico has the Jedi Knight Academy (JKAMX).
This latest offer from South America makes one's Star Wars dreams alive, as the collective of fans and people who want to try out the sport are welcome to learn the ways of the Force.
Jedi Knight Academy Mexico Teaches the Ways of the Force
A new report from The South China Morning Post (SCMP) via AFP revealed a new organization in Mexico that conducts its training late at night, diving deep into the art of wielding lightsabers. This centers on the renowned phenomenon that took over the world called lightsaber fencing, an official sport recognized by France's fencing federation, and has held various national competitions.
About 20 people gather every night at a park in southern Mexico to learn the ways of the Force and perfect their craft. They teach it using the techniques of the Jedi, Star Wars protectors under the Jedi Order.
Participants progress through the different ranks of their training based on skill, starting as a 'padawan' and then moving on to 'knight' and 'grand knight' before achieving the highest rank of 'master.'
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Lightsaber Training as a Sport? Mexico's Glowing Fencing
While most participants are fans of Star Wars and envision themselves as real-life Jedis, other members have found it to be a great sport and form of training to maintain an active lifestyle. This glowing fencing experience, thanks to the lightsabers, is now evolving into a massive experience, as the Jedi Knight Academy Mexico will be holding a national tournament of lightsaber fencing on July 21, which will be open to all.
The Influence of Star Wars and Lightsabers
George Lucas' renowned Star Wars franchise has been one of the most popular and special pop culture icons from the late 1970s until now, and many bring the experience to life or in games. While there have been many toy lightsabers before, a game on the Oculus Rift brings a lightsaber dual VR simulator for fans who want to try it out.
Various organizations and groups have come together in the US to train the ways of the Force with lightsabers, but not as massive as in other countries. However, there has been an initiative that looked to influence many, centering on a Star Wars workout experience that centers on a training video using lightsabers.
Lightsabers are known as the only weapon a Jedi should have, and from a young age, they are trained to master the ways of the Force and feel it from everywhere, but it is only a tool, and its beholder should be adept at handling it. That is no longer a problem for the Jedi Knight Academy in Mexico, which teaches lightsaber fencing to its members and makes the galactic dream possible for all.