How to Go on Guard in Foil Fencing
The guard is a position of readiness assumed by a fencer with body and weapon to prepare for attack, defense and counteroffense. A fencer first assumes the guard from first position.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Direct your head and eyes toward the adversary.
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2
Sweep the foil upward in a circular motion, from rear to front and from low to high, while simultaneously sweeping the rear arm in an identical fashion but in the opposite direction.
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3
Conclude these circular movements with both arms extending in a straight line, level with the floor and in opposite directions. Direct the point of the weapon at the adversary, hand in fourth position.
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4
Step directly forward with the leading foot along the line of direction approximately 1 1/2 shoe lengths.
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5
Set the foot down heel first, toes directed at the adversary,
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6
Bend both knees and open them away from each other, rear knee positioned perpendicular to the rear toe and front knee over the instep of the right foot.
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7
Check that your body weight is equally supported by both legs, with the torso in profile and inclined a little forward, the shoulders down and free of tension.
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8
Draw back the sword arm slightly while flexing the rear forearm upward, perpendicular to the floor, elbow slightly above the shoulder.
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9
Bend the rear hand forward at the wrist, fingers together and thumb out.
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10
Position the weapon with its guard level with the chest, point directed toward the adversary's collarbone area, the blade forming a straight line with the forearm.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The sword arm should be three-quarters extended and relaxed, with the hand in fourth position and with the weapon centered midway between the high line invitations in third and fourth.
The elbow of the sword arm should be positioned in front of the flank.
Be sure you direct the leading foot straight at the adversary and that the rear heel is in line with the leading heel.
Do everything possible to cultivate the habit of maintaining a perfect guard position - it is vital to the proper execution of all other actions.
Avoid the natural tendency to rise while parrying in retreat - doing so will not only impair the ability to riposte effectively, but may even result in a fall backward.
