How to Choreograph a Sword Fight

Fencing is an art in the sword fighting world. It takes absolute precision from both parties to craft a sword fighting scene and keep everyone from getting hurt. There are some key components when choreographing such a match that need to be in place for a realistic and safe sword fighting scene to take place.

Instructions

1. Know how to fence extremely well and make sure the actors or other individuals are well trained in it as well. It's important that everyone involved be skilled in all the footwork, the importance of balance and how to fight. Encourage the actors to wear some of the safety equipment under their costumes, such as the Proflex vest.

2. Decide on the moves you are going to use and set the scene based on the number of people in the scene and whether they are in the same fight or multiple fights within the scene. In movies, you usually see a mass of people come together, then break off into separate fights. Each of these separate fights will need to be choreographed independently from the rest.

3. Consider distance and placement. These are the two most important factors in choreographing a fight scene as it keeps people safe. Distance has to do with the proximity of the actors to each other. They need to be far enough away from each other to allow the sword to pass by them, not hit them. Placement is the exact direction and stopping point of the sword. This also needs to be strategized so it does not hit anyone.

4. Work out the timing. The timing of a scene and when the sword moves will take place is extremely important too. Practice is the last component of a sword fighting scene. The general rule is for every second of fighting, there should be one hour of practice. Practice is extremely important to avoid actors getting hurt.

5. Use basic linear moves for the first section of the sword fight. This will help to establish a rhythm that you can then build off of. Start with a lunge step and thrust. This should be done with a pronated hand, slightly turned out, to avoid actually hitting the other person.