Frequently Asked Fencing Questions
What are the fencing weapons?
There are three weapons in fencing and each one has its own rules and characteristics:
Epee - involves a game of patience where timing and precision are crucial. The target is the entire body.
Saber - definitely the fastest weapon and it relies on quick movements. The target is anywhere above the waist.
Foil - a combination of Epee and Sabre, requiring the precision of the former and the speed of the latter. The target is only the torso.
With foil and epee you can score hits (points) only with the tip, while with saber the blows can be delivered not only with the tip, but also with the side edges and the back of the blade.
What are the basic fencing strategies?
At the base of fencing is the guard position, the 'mise en garde', in which the armed hand and the knees are bent forward facing the opponent. This is the starting position for attack and defense.
The attack is a continuous movement towards the opponent in which the hit is sought through a lunge, or rather by extending the armed arm all the way and moving the torso and front foot forward, leaving the rear leg extended.
The defense is made up of parries which prevent the opponent from hitting the target by deflecting his/her blade, or is made of retreating to move the target away from the opponent.
How are fencing matches played?
Fencing matches (also called fencing bouts) take place on a strip and the score goes to 5 touches or 15 touches. The regulatory duration of fencing bouts is 3 minutes for the 5 touch bouts or up to three segments of 3 minutes, with an interval of 1 minute between, for the 15 touch bouts. The winner is the fencer who reaches 5 or 15 touches first, or the fencer in the lead when time runs out. If the two fencers are tied at the end of the match, they continue to fence for an additional minute, during which the first to score a hit wins.
What are the fundamental aspects of fencing?
Time, speed and distance.
First of all, a fencer must be able to understand when the opponent's concentration and activity is slowing down, and then choose the right time to attack.
Another fundamental aspect is the speed of execution of the technical and athletic movement to score the hit.
Finally, the right distances important to reach the opponent’s target.
Why is fencing great for children?
Fencing can be optimal for children because it teaches discipline and how to listen: you need to be able to accept challenges and the consequent victories and defeats, you need to listen to your coach advice and make decisions quickly by getting used to managing tension and emotions.
At what age can you start fencing?
There is nor right or wrong starting age in fencing. This is a sport for all ages and at Ataba Fencing Club we have fencers ranging from 6 years old to 70 years old. Fencing can be a sport for the whole family, in fact in our club we have many parents with their children that play the sport.
Is fencing a dangerous sport?
No, because the equipment used by our fencers is absolutely safe and is certified by the international fencing standards. The mask has an iron grid that cannot break if hit, and the uniform is made of Kevlar, a material which, although soft and comfortable, is highly resistant and protective.
What commitment does fencing require?
At Ataba Fencing Club we welcome both amateur fencers and fencers who want to practice fencing at competitive levels. Therefore, depending on the level and goals you want to achieve, you fencers train accordingly.
Which tournaments can fencers participate in?
There are various levels of tournaments: local, regional, and national. Our coaches will be able to suggest which ones are best suited for each individual fencer.
We organize a tournament every month in our club and our coaches advise beginners to start with these tournaments before participating in regionals and then nationals.
Is United States Fencing Association (USFA) membership required?
When you join Ataba Fencing Club, you must also obtain a USFA membership at https://www.usafencing.org/membership
There are different levels of membership and we recommend to start with the Access Membership.
If you have any questions please feel free to ask any member of our staff or one of our coaches.