Getting Started

The sword is one of the oldest of weapons and, as Egyptian frescoes circa 1200BC show, fencing is one of the oldest of sports
The ability to demonstrate speed, skill and dexterity with a sword has always been considered an indication of manliness and throughout 17th and 18th century Europe dueling with rapiers settled 'matters of honour'
 
The modern Olympic sport requires fencers to be of the fittest of athletes and have levels of skills which require many hours of dedicated training.
 
 
When fencing is offered as a holiday activity or at a taster session there are always large numbers of youngsters who wish to emulate their story book heroes.
 
Fencing for those in wheelchairs is a major sport in disabled competitions and Britain has won many medals at fencing in the Paraplegic Games. Certain disabilities prove to be of little disadvantage at fencing and those who are unable to compete in other sports find that they can compete on equal terms with able-bodies fencers.

Kit you'll need

Many clubs will lend you equipment when you are doing a beginner course, they generally then like you to start purchasing your own so that their kit can be used for new beginners.
There are two options as a beginner, the first is to buy individual items one at a time until you have a full set and the second solution is to buy a starter.

If you are buying without trying equipment on make sure that you have your measurements e.g. chest measurement for jackets, waist measurement for breeches etc…

What's Good

In learning the skills of attacking and defending with the Foil, Epee or Sabre fencers develop good co-ordination, balance and flexibility which make fencing training an ideal means of keeping fit for all ages and abilities

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