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Step 1
One way to score in foil fencing is through a simple attack. The fencer simply thrusts or lunges toward his opponent's target area. An attack "lands" when the tip is depressed enough for the score box to register it, and no illegal actions have occurred in the process. A point is scored by the fencer who initiated the attack first.
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Step 2
In the counterattack, you to react to your opponent's attack. Once your opponent begins her attack you cut her action short by initiating your own attack by lunging or thrusting toward her as well. This must be timed properly to be effective in foil fencing. If you counterattack into your opponent's initial attack she maintains the "right of way." If that happens and your opponent's touch lands your opponent will score the point even though the score box indicates that both of you landed touches during the action.
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Step 3
A parry-riposte also requires your opponent's initiation. When your opponent thrusts or lunges toward you, you parry (block with your blade) his attack. In one action you move from a defensive posture of parrying his attack, into an offensive one in which you riposte, or attack him in return. This is one of the most effective means of establishing "right of way" in foil fencing.
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Step 4
When you begin a disengage, you act like you will attack your opponent on one side of his blade, then quickly slide your blade underneath hers to the other side. If this move is executed properly your opponent will find herself trying to parry a blade that is no longer there.
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Step 5
Because of foil fencing's target area and need for "right of way," the fleche is considered by some to be the path of least resistance in getting a touch. A fleche is a very fast move that consists in extending your arm toward the opponent and springing toward him off of your front leg. Your back leg then catches your opponent (ostensibly after the touch lands) in order to keep her from falling. You continue forward, running past your opponent to keep from being touched by any defensive action.
