How to Learn Fencing

There was a time when one's skill with a sword often determined whether one lived or died. That is no longer the case. Swords are still used in duels of honor, but today it is the honor of Olympic medals and one's reputation as a fencer over which they are waged. No longer are they fought to the death--nor do they begin with the slap of a glove across an opponent's face.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. View video of what a fencing match looks like on a website that shows highlights of recent fencing matches. Get an idea of the sport's nature and the way it's scored.

2. Familiarize yourself with the world of fencing by exploring fencing.net. Drill down to articles introducing the sport and some of its basics. Learn about the three weapons used in the sport, the foil, epee, and sabre. Read about Eastern fencing, kendo, not an Olympic sport, but popular worldwide.

3. Purchase the CD ROM series, "Training of a Champion" and Imre Vass' book "Epee Fencing: A Complete System." Review them to learn some basic skills.

4. Go to the website of the United States Fencing Association. Familiarize yourself with its services. Use its resource of links to find a fencing club close to your home. Contact the club and visit one of its sessions.

5. Take group lessons at the club or begin immediately with your own personal coach. Check out the website of the United States Fencing Coaches Association (USFACA). It is best to have a coach who is a member of this organization.

6. Continue with your training. Participate in local competition. Choose your weapon of choice. Most highly skilled fencers compete best in the use of one weapon since the techniques used are different between the three.

7. Continue your fencing in college. Fencing is an intercollegiate sport at many colleges. Hone your skills until you gain a national ranking. Compete for a position on the Olympic team.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if you qualify for the Olympic fencing team, it is probably best to not begin your first match by slapping your opponent across the face with a glove.

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Resources

• Website of USFA