It is my understanding that in Britain and possibly elsewhere in Europe they have societies which reenact Gladiatorial combat, including many of their varied armentations(?), including Net and Trident, Gallic Sword, twin daggers, the steel and leather strap 'boxing' glove, and of course the 'Samnite', fighting with the Gladius.
By the way this is Lord of the Rings weekend on TNT, the Fellowship of the Rings is on, and Gandalf just took a fall. I'll give all your regards to Galadriel, if you like.
Hey... I was watching that, too. Haven't seen it in ages. The theatrical version, and the commercials do tend to lessen the experience. Oh well. Not like there's anything else on.
Plus! I think I saw Boromir actually do a couple of parries with the flat! Far out... :-)