Fencing is for everyone
What is fencing?
Fencing is a modern Olympic sport derived from the art of sword fighting. Advanced materials and equipment make it extremely safe. Centuries of tradition keep it elegant and respectful. Rooted in the history of European duelling, it has grown to become a truly international sport.
What is an epee?
Modern Olympic fencing has evolved into three separate disciplines. Each of these uses a different weapon with a different heritage and different rules of play. The epee evolved from the French "epee de combat", a thrusting sword with a sharp tip used for duelling in the 19th Century. In Olympic epee fencing hits are scored with the tip of the weapon and are allowed anywhere on the body - whoever gets there first wins! Simple in theory, surprisingly hard to achieve in practice.
Why fence?
Many people are drawn to fencing inspired by scenes from movies, books and computer games. They quickly discover that not only is fencing great fun, it's a unique workout for the mind and body. The one-on-one intensity of sword fighting builds self-control and concentration. Fencing footwork is terrific for developing core strength and balance. And fencing is the ideal city sport: the equipment is easily carried, and most training sessions work on a flexible drop-in basis, which works well for those with unpredictable schedules.
What makes a good fencer?
Like all martial sports, successful fencing requires an element of athleticism, tactical awareness and good technique. Quick reflexes and a strong psychology also play their part. With a solid body of logical theory underpinning the sport, it is sometimes described as "physical chess." It is considered by many to be the most cerebral of sports - one of the few in which brain often trumps brawn.
What sort of people fence?
Fencing is for everyone. The days of fencing being an "elitist" sport are long gone. Many of our members fence socially, purely for fun. Others brave the competition circuit. Age is no obstacle. With regular training, athletes can remain competitive on the main Senior circuit well into late middle age. The very well organised and extremely sociable British and European Veterans Fencing circuits provide national and international competition opportunities for fencers into their 70s and beyond.
Is it expensive?
Not with us! For beginners and recreational fencers, Haverstock Fencing Club can provide all of the necessary equipment to train as part of our low-cost courses and memberships.
Fencing is a modern Olympic sport derived from the art of sword fighting. Advanced materials and equipment make it extremely safe. Centuries of tradition keep it elegant and respectful. Rooted in the history of European duelling, it has grown to become a truly international sport.
What is an epee?
Modern Olympic fencing has evolved into three separate disciplines. Each of these uses a different weapon with a different heritage and different rules of play. The epee evolved from the French "epee de combat", a thrusting sword with a sharp tip used for duelling in the 19th Century. In Olympic epee fencing hits are scored with the tip of the weapon and are allowed anywhere on the body - whoever gets there first wins! Simple in theory, surprisingly hard to achieve in practice.
Why fence?
Many people are drawn to fencing inspired by scenes from movies, books and computer games. They quickly discover that not only is fencing great fun, it's a unique workout for the mind and body. The one-on-one intensity of sword fighting builds self-control and concentration. Fencing footwork is terrific for developing core strength and balance. And fencing is the ideal city sport: the equipment is easily carried, and most training sessions work on a flexible drop-in basis, which works well for those with unpredictable schedules.
What makes a good fencer?
Like all martial sports, successful fencing requires an element of athleticism, tactical awareness and good technique. Quick reflexes and a strong psychology also play their part. With a solid body of logical theory underpinning the sport, it is sometimes described as "physical chess." It is considered by many to be the most cerebral of sports - one of the few in which brain often trumps brawn.
What sort of people fence?
Fencing is for everyone. The days of fencing being an "elitist" sport are long gone. Many of our members fence socially, purely for fun. Others brave the competition circuit. Age is no obstacle. With regular training, athletes can remain competitive on the main Senior circuit well into late middle age. The very well organised and extremely sociable British and European Veterans Fencing circuits provide national and international competition opportunities for fencers into their 70s and beyond.
Is it expensive?
Not with us! For beginners and recreational fencers, Haverstock Fencing Club can provide all of the necessary equipment to train as part of our low-cost courses and memberships.
British Fencing, our Sports Governing Body, provides comprehensive information and resources about fencing for beginners.
Click on the logo below to access the "Welcome to Fencing" section of their website.
Click on the logo below to access the "Welcome to Fencing" section of their website.
