What is fencing and what will it do for me?

Fencing is a modern Olympic combat sport that developed from the need to hone skills for fighting and for duelling.  It is sport for all ages and both sexes that can provide new social contacts and interests…and make you fitter in the process.

 

Can I start at any age?

Absolutely!  We love to say that we can teach anyone to fence, regardless of age.  And fencing is a sport you can stay in too, to any age.  Our oldest member is approaching 80 and has fenced since learning at school. 

 

Will I get fitter?  

Fencing fitness involves agility, flexibility, strength and power, and coordination.  It is load-bearing and low impact. Our programmes will develop you in all these areas, regardless how ‘unfit’ you were at the outset. 

 

Fencing is largely anaerobic.  You don’t need to be able to run a mile, but your ‘short spurt’ ability will improve enormously.  And ultimately, your overall heart-lung fitness as you are able to fence for longer and at higher intensity.

 

Mental fitness is important too!

Acquiring new skills is stimulating and absorbing.  Fencing is tactical and technical for those that have that sort of mind; it’s combat for fighters; it’s complex and focussed for those that take pleasure from developing fine motor-skills.   

 

What if I have injuries or other problems?

The best advice is to try first.  If you have pre-existing injuries or disabilities, you might want to take advantage of one of our free tasters before you commit to a class.  

We are not able to accommodate wheelchair fencers, but there is an active wheelchair fencing association who will give advice on this.

 

Can I compete...and if I just want to fence just for enjoyment, is that ok too? 

Many people enjoy the social interaction or the physical and mental challenge of fencing, without competing.  For those who would like to have a go, there are entry-level competitions for all ages from where you can progress to full international if that’s your thing!  There is a particularly active Veterans’ fencing association who organise Veterans’ events where you will come across many 40+, 50+, 60+ and 70+ fencers.  It’s great fun and very friendly.

 

Does it cost much?

Classes are comparable in price to any sport club or dancing class.  Once you take the step to joining in with club night fencing, monthly fees are modest and affordable.  We offer discounted rates to students and under 25s who are not yet in work.

 

If you want to improve more quickly, you can take private lessons for one or more persons, from 20 minutes to an hour – or more.  These are by arrangement, and priced according to location etc.

 

Do I need special equipment?

No…and yes!!  Initially, no – we provide everything.  But as you improve, you are likely to want your own mask, glove…then maybe a weapon or two and so on.  And if you keep going, you will have all your own kit.  In the main this is a one-off expense as clothing lasts a good few years.

 

Is it safe – for me, for my children??

YES!  Without hesitation, we can say that, fencing is statistically one of the safest of all sports and serious injuries are extremely rare.  Knee and ankle injuries occur infrequently.  In normal training, the odd bruise might occur.

It is important of course that the correct equipment is used (clothing and masks are safety-rated).  This is a club rule that we always enforce.