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Step 1
Watch the footwork of the attacker while you are on defense. The best way to control distance on defense is to stay one step ahead of your opponent. When they move forward you move back. At all times you want to keep the maximum amount of space between you and your opponent.
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Step 2
Use your sabre to create distance on defense. Engaging your opponent while on the defensive backward motion is a good method for gaining distance. If both sabres are engaged, the theory is that the attacker has to back off to gain the room to effectively attack.
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Step 3
Anticipate your opponent's defense when you are attacking. Watch the footwork and body language with the sabre. An unskilled fencer will tell you what they are thinking before they do it. This can give you the advantage by knowing when to close the distance and strike.
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Step 4
Engage your sabre against the defender even if you are not immediately attacking. An unskilled fencer can become overwhelmed by the footwork and sabrework required to mount an effective defense.
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Step 5
Practice patience. While the action of a match can be rapid and breathless, an small amount of patience can yield big results. On offense, hold back your attack and size up the situation in front of you. Wait for the proper opportunity to strike instead of attempting to create your own opportunity.
