The Combat Techniques and Training Regimes of Medieval Knights in Full Plate Armor

Medieval knights were renowned for their imposing and awe-inspiring appearance in full plate armor. Despite the common misconception that the armor was cumbersome and restrictive, extensive research and modern demonstrations have shown that knights faced and surpassed these challenges with exceptional physical conditioning and tactical training.

Armor Design and Lightweight Construction

The armor worn by knights was meticulously crafted to be both functional and effective. Plates in a full suit of armor were relatively thin, reducing weight and allowing for better mobility. This design choice not only minimized the weight but also ensured that the armor did not hinder the knight's movement. In fact, tests have shown that a person wearing a medieval articulated gauntlet could perform tasks such as picking up a penny without significant hindrance to their dexterity.

Weight Management and Conditioning

Although full plate armor weighed anywhere from 35 to 50 pounds, the weight was well distributed, and knights conditioned their bodies to handle the armor effectively. This conditioning was akin to the regimens modern soldiers follow. Even with the armor weighing roughly half of what a contemporary soldier carries, knights who wore their armor regularly and trained in it found it to be less burdensome. Videos on YouTube showcasing medieval reenactors running, jumping, and performing cartwheels in full plate armor demonstrate that the armor was not as restrictive as commonly believed.

Heat management was another critical challenge for knights. The armor did not “breathe” well, and heat build-up could be problematic. However, knights addressed this issue through rigorous conditioning, acclimatizing their bodies to the discomfort. This preparation allowed knights to endure the heat and perform at their best during battles.

Proven Physical Superiority

Medieval knights were not just armored but also physically superior to the typical foot soldiers of their time. They were highly trained and conditioned to wear and fight in full plate armor. This condition was achieved not only through combat training but also through extensive courtly training focusing on court life and manners. The age of 14 marked the transition from a page to a squire, where the rigorous physical training began in earnest.

Combat Techniques and Training Regimes

Medieval knights engaged in various forms of combat, both on horseback and on foot. On horseback, they used a variety of weapons including lances, maces, swords, war hammers, and possibly axes. The inclusion of bows was less common, as the advancement in armor design made it difficult for archers to penetrate the shielded knights.

On foot, knights typically used a shield alongside swords, maces, war hammers, pollaxes, poleaxes, and halberds. The evolution of armor from kite shields to heater shields significantly reduced the need for large shields on foot, making these weapons more practical and versatile.

The effectiveness of these tactics is supported by the Peltzman effect, which suggests that as armor and shields become more effective in protecting against certain weapons, individuals naturally adapt their tactics to compensate. This mutual improvement in defense and offense makes the knights' combat techniques more dynamic and strategic.

In conclusion, the medieval knights were not only imposing in appearance but also highly skilled in their combat techniques and physically conditioned to withstand the rigors of full plate armor. Their adaptability and training ensured they were formidable opponents on both horseback and foot.