Finally, you’ve decided to join the amazing world of fencing. But wait. You have no idea where to start!
No need to worry, every fencer has been in your position before, and really it’s not that hard. Starting from the very beginning, we’ll teach you step by step, how to get started on your fencing journey.
Now let’s get to business.
Table of Contents
Do Some Research Before You Start Fencing
Watch a few Olympics or high-level fencing videos! It’s a bad idea to blindly start anything new, so try to really get a feel for the sport of fencing, just to avoid any misconceptions you may have.
Here’s one of our favorites to get you in the fencing mood:
There are three different styles in fencing, that come along with three different rule sets, and even three different swords. So it’s good to at least be familiar with sabre, epee, and foil fencing.
Check out the different styles, but don’t get your mindset on one just yet. Just have an idea, and take note of what you like.
Find a Fencing Club!
Go to google, and search up “fencing club near me”. Depending on where you are, you may or may not have a fencing club close by. But this is the best way to get started.
Fencing clubs are full of coaches, experienced fencers, new fencers, equipment, and knowledge.
Now is where your past research comes in handy. Which style of fencing strikes your interest? Whether it’s one, two, or all three, it’s time to set up a trial class for your style of choice, with a fencing coach at your nearest club.
In some cases, a club may only specialize in one or two kinds of fencing (sabre foil or epee). In which case you may have no choice in which style (which is okay because they’re all great!). However, this is rare.
Choose Your Fencing Style
Once you’ve had your first trial class or two, you may want to try another style, which is fine. When you feel you’re ready to dedicate yourself to one of the three, then it’s time to let the fun
begin.
Time to Start Fencing
Gear Up
Some fencing clubs may have gear provided for you, but if not you may have to get your own.
Finding the right gear may be difficult. Ordering online from places like amazon, are usually the go-to for most fencers. However, if there is a fencing competition in your area, you may be able to purchase some equipment from vendors there.
A few good fencing brands include Blue Gauntlet, Leon Paul, Uhlmann, and Allstar. Nike is also a great company for sporting products like shoes, and compression gear. Check out more at the FIE official site.
When ordering online, make sure all the sizes match up to you!
Mandatory equipment in fencing include: mask, sword, sword-hand glove, and a lamé (jacket). These are going to keep you safe! Learn more about being safe and not sorry.
Learn How to Play Safely
Learning proper safety is the best way to start fencing. Remember, you’re swinging around swords! Although fencing is completely safe, any accident can cause harm.
Knowing not to swing your swords in the air around people’s faces, may sound obvious, but you can never be too safe.
Learning the proper stretches and movements can protect you from injury as well. You don’t want to pull a muscle or have a sword accident.
Things to Remember
Keep in mind, picking up new sports at any age can be difficult at times. Everybody was a beginner at some point in their life, so try not to compare yourself to others if you find yourself struggling.
Having a coach to make sure you’re on the right learning path and making sure you have the right equipment are the main things to get you started. The rest is up to you.
Staying in shape, stretching, eating right, are all parts of being a good fencer. Practice as often as you can, and as best as you can.
Send any questions you may have to [email protected] We’d love to help!
Now that you have chosen a style, joined a club, purchased your gear, and learned proper safety, you are ready to fence. Congratulations! You just made the best decision of your life.
