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Fencing is very much an individual sport and over the years we have seen time and again the fencing attracts many of those children who turn away from the main stream team sports, those who can’t run, throw, catch or kick, those who aren’t natural athletes in group environments.
Give them a sword, however, and something fires their imagination. …
Benefits of fencing to children Read More »
When you watch a fencing bout, what exactly are you looking at?
Newcomers to competition, including parents, partners and even some of the new fencers may find it confusing to watch and, more importantly, understand fencing. It is a fast sport fought in short bouts (fights) according to strict technical rules with little time to analyse or find explanations.
For this non-fencer and newcomer, this is, in summary, how fencing ‘works’. …
How to Watch a Fencing Bout Read More »
West Devon Swords ‘Summer on Tour’ began in July with five hundred Foundation and Year One children from local primary schools taking part in multi-skills sessions at Whitchurch Wayfarers Cricket Club, over two days in beautiful sunshine. …
Multi-skills fiesta but no siesta for primary pupilsRead More »
Multi-skills fiesta but no siesta for primary pupils Read More »
For the non-runners, jumpers and throwers, West Devon Swords was able to offer an alternative sporting experience for Okehampton College pupils at the annual sports day in July.
A split session of archery and Go Fence foil provided competition of a different sort alongside the usual athletics programme. …
A different target for College Sports Day Read More »
By Robin Catling.
Before you even walk into any fencing club or tournament, you’ll hear the bright sound of clashing steel. This is both combat martial art and sport.
The modern sport of fencing has three different events: foil, epée and sabre, each with its own history, target area and rules. The goal in all three weapons is to hit the opponent on the valid target area without being hit yourself. …
The fencing experience – a newcomers’ guide Read More »
Studying historical combat techniques with heavy weapons is rewarding and fun, but, like most other martial arts, inherently risky. We all have proper jobs to go back to, families to look after, bills to pay; things that are difficult enough without the added burden of trips to A&E, bandages, splints, crutches and the long-lasting effects of concussion (genuinely no laughing matter). We are not 24/7 Medieval or Renaissance warriors. This is a hobby more than a lifestyle choice. …
HEMA – is it safe? Read More »
Your fencing questions answered. New to fencing? Start here.
Our frequently asked questions page has been updated.
If there’s something we haven’t covered, please contact us. …
Modern fencing is a martial art derived from older forms of duelling with swords. The objective is to hit your opponent without being hit yourself. Modern fencing is a competitive form that emulates a duel – the weapons are blunt and a secondary objective after winning the bout is not to injure anyone. Read more…
Before you even walk into any fencing club or tournament, you’ll hear the bright sound of clashing steel. This is both combat martial art and sport.
The modern sport of fencing has three different events: foil, epée and sabre, each with its own history, target area and rules. The goal in all three weapons is to hit the opponent on the valid target area without being hit yourself… Read more…
Not if done properly. Although executed at speed, a good, clean fencing attack hurts no more than a tap on the shoulder. The force of the blow is normally absorbed by the flex of the blade. Reckless and overly aggressive fencers can occasionally deliver painful blows, however. Fencing *is* a martial art, so you should expect minor bruises and welts every now and again. They are rarely intentional. The most painful blows tend to come from inexperienced fencers who have not yet acquired the feel of the weapon. Read more…
Fencing is a safe sport. Regulation equipment conforming to safety standards and common sense fencing helps to maintain our good safety record. Read more…
If that has piqued your interest, try the following posts:
New to Fencing: Start Here Read More »
Our Essential Fencing Equipment Guide is now updated.
For those thinking of buying their own kit this season, the guide to basic fencing kit has been revised for 2013.
It outlines the items you’ll need, the suggested order of purchase if you’re not going for a starter kit, and a couple of suggestions of suppliers you might want to try. …
Essential Fencing Equipment Guide (2013) Read More »
