Medieval Tournaments

Medieval knights, when they weren't busy enganging in battles or protecting the
interests of their lord, wanted to keep their skills honed, and often challenged rival
knights to tournaments. These have their roots in lance and shield training
conducted by Charlemagne's troops in the 8th and 9th centuries.
The first tournaments were mock battles that had more in common with military
training than they did as a spectator sport. Jousting, where two knights would face
each other atop horses, and armed with lances and shields, may have began as a
way to settle disputes within the ranks. These early battles were called duels of
chivalry. A knight won when he hit an opponent's shield or helmet. Striking the
opponent's legs or hitting his horse was considered a foul. Jousting reached its
height as a medieval spectator sport in the 13th century, where thousands would
crowd the stands.
Sword fights with blunt blades were also part of the tournament. Most medieval
weapons could have been used at some point in the competition, from battle-axes
and maces to daggers and fists.
The winner often took the loser's horse and at times, his armor.