Notes

Fencing it was introduced in the 18th century
Modern fencing originated in the 18th century influenced by the Italian school of fencing of the Renaissance, and improved by the French school even though it is widely said that fencing does not partially belong to one country due to the fact that whatever county it was in it played a part. Though it is said that modern fencing was created in Italy during the 16th century the Italian masters Agrippa, Capo ferro, di Grassi, Fabris, Giganti, Marozzo, and Viggiani wrote treatises which established Italy as the originator of modern fencing. The objective of the sport is to strike your opponent with your weapon which will be a sord each weapon has its own characteristics, rules, and signature style depicted by what type or style of fencing you choose to do almost every aspect and part of this sport depends on what style of fencing you do
why is that? that is because that the style of fencing you choose to do also decides what form of scoring you use
and how do you win? by beating your opponent with consecutive and numerous strikes.



There are a total of three different types of fencing
the three different types of competitive fencing and the different characteristics of the weapons are
Foil: Uses a lightweight, pointed-tip sword.
Épée: Uses a heavier pointed sword.
Sabre: Competitors can use all sides of the sword to score points12.

Foil Fencing
FOIL TARGET AREA
Foil fencing is probably the most popular form of fencing and is preferred by most beginners. The objective in foil fencing is to touch the tip of your foil blade to the opponent’s torso (excluding the arms), back, or crotch. This is called the target area.
Hits from the side of the blade won’t get you a point.
Since the target area is small in foil fencing, tactics include much smaller, individual movements of the sword to achieve points.

The arm movements are smaller compared to saber and épée, but the matches are still fast and intense since the foil fencer still has to be able to maneuver back and forth quickly. So it’ll require quite a bit of agility.

The right of way rule applies in foil. This rule determines which fencer gets the point when both fencers touch each other in the target area at the same time.

The referee determines who the fencer with the right of way is, usually by which player properly initiated the attack.

Although all swords are light, the foil itself is the lightest weapon of the three and can be paired with either a French grip or a pistol grip.

The foil is a very flexible weapon and most fencers prefer to slightly bend their blade. The dimensions of the foil allow for quick attacks such as the flick. The foil is truly a fine piece of steel… to say




Épée Fencing
ÉPÉE TARGET AREA
Similar to foil fencing, in épée fencing the objective is to touch the tip of your épée blade to the opponent’s target area.
The épée is meant to mimic a real duel, so the target area is the entire body, from helmet to shoe, even including the hands.
In contrast to foil fencing, épée matches can be very slow. On some occasions Since the target area is the entire body, one mistake can result in a touch.

Hits from the side of the blade won’t get you a point, like foil only the tip is valid.

There are also no off-target attacks, so the referee rarely halts the match.

The movements vary from large to small motions, fencers can even be seen diving to the floor in an attempt to touch the opposing player’s foot

But if your sword happens to slip under the bib of your opponent’s mask, hits to the neck don’t count. That one’s kind of obvious.

Anyways, epee fencing is the only type out of the three where the right of way rule does not apply. If the fencers touch each other at the same time then they’re both given a point.

The epee looks similar to the foil, except it’s stiffer and heavier. Epees may also use either a pistol or French grip. And of course, when playing competitively, every sword has a wire attachment.




Sabre Fencing
SABRE TARGET AREA
Probably the most unique form of fencing is the saber. The main difference in saber is that fencers may touch their opponent with any part of their blades, tip or side. So saber has a lot of swinging blades
The target area is the entire upper body, excluding the head, hands, and crotch (but you wouldn’t want to get hit there by a saber .As you can probably guess, saber matches are fast and fun to watch since there are many new ways to score. if an off-target attack is made then the match still continues until a point is scored.

Like foil fencing, the right of way rule applies to saber.

Since the saber is a cutting weapon as well as thrusting, the range of motion is basically limitless. From large swings to quick thrusts, saber matches are the most exciting to watch.

The saber itself is similar to the foil and epee in shape. It’s basically a foil with a protective grip. Since there’s a lot of swinging involved in saber, the handguard is a must.


Breaking down the true basics of fencing
ill be going into the true nature and art of the fundamental and foundation of fencing,

The Basics of Fencing
Fencing is an elegant and dynamic sport that requires a combination of technique, strategy, and quick reflexes. To excel in this sport, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the basics. This information will guide you through the fundamental aspects of fencing, including equipment, footwork, and basic stances.

Understanding the Equipment
Before delving into the techniques and strategies of fencing, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the equipment used in this sport even if i have already covered the details of the weapons used in this sport i feel the need to make the importance and the effects that it will have on you and the sport.

Mastering Footwork
Footwork is an essential component of fencing as it allows fencers to maintain balance, move swiftly, and execute attacks and defenses effectively. There are several basic footwork techniques that fencers must learn to become proficient in this sport.
One such technique is the advance, where the fencer moves forward by extending one foot and then bringing the trailing foot up to meet it. This movement allows for quick advancements towards the opponent. The retreat, on the other hand, involves moving backward by stepping one foot back and following it with the other foot. It is used to create distance and evade attacks.

Another crucial footwork technique is the lunge, which is an attacking movement. The fencer pushes off the back leg, propels forward, and extends the front leg while maintaining a balanced stance. The lunge allows for an explosive and accurate attack towards the opponent. Lastly, the sidestep is a lateral movement that involves stepping to the side with one foot while keeping the other foot in place. It is used to create angles, change directions, and avoid attacks.

Learning the Basic Stances
In addition to footwork, mastering the basic stances is essential for successful fencing. The stance provides a solid foundation, balance, and stability for executing attacks and defenses. There are three primary stances that fencers must learn.

The en garde stance is the starting position in fencing. It involves standing with the feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and the non-dominant side facing the opponent. The fencer holds the weapon with the dominant hand, elbow bent, and the non-dominant hand positioned in front of the body for balance and protection.
The on guard stance, also known as the ready position, is a slightly more dynamic stance. The fencer stands with the feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and the weapon arm extended forward. The non-dominant hand is used to maintain balance and protect the body.
Lastly, the engagement stance is used when engaging with the opponent. It involves extending the weapon arm towards the opponent while maintaining a balanced position. The fencer remains light on their feet, ready to react and execute attacks or defenses.

By understanding the equipment, mastering footwork, and learning the basic stances, you will have a solid foundation in the art of fencing. These fundamentals will pave the way for further skill development and allow you to explore the intricate techniques and strategies that make this sport truly captivating.


Olympic fencers that have caused changes in fencing history
these fencers are known as some of the best fencers in history with many of them breaking records and etc.

Edoardo Mangiarotti: The “Master of the Epee,” Mangiarotti is undeniably one of the most decorated fencers in history. His finesse, tactical prowess, and deep understanding of timing and distance set him apart. Imagine this: 13 Olympic medals (including 6 golds, 5 silvers, and 2 bronzes) and a whopping 26 World Championship medals! His impact extends beyond the medals; he inspired generations of Italian fencers and remains a benchmark for excellence12



Valentina Vezzali: The “Queen of Foil,” Vezzali wields her agility and tactical intelligence like a true maestro. Her impressive résumé includes 6 Olympic gold medals, along with 1 silver and 2 bronze. But that’s not all—she’s also claimed a staggering 16 World Championship titles! Beyond the piste, she’s an Italian Parliament member, using her influence to advocate for sports and social causes.



Aladár Gerevich: This Hungarian saber legend deserves a standing ovation. His name echoes through time as arguably the best Olympic fencer ever. Born in 1910, Gerevich’s legacy includes a remarkable career spanning multiple Games. His weapon of choice? The sabre, which has been part of every Olympic Games since 1896! 13


Áron Szilágyi: This Hungarian saber fencer has been carving his own path. He clinched gold in both 2012 and 2016, making him one of the few to win the same event twice. 3.



The foundation for the fundamental techniques of fencing

In the world of fencing, mastering the fundamental techniques is crucial for any aspiring fencer. These techniques lay the foundation for successful bouts and enable fencers to effectively execute their there are three essential fencing techniques: the thrust, the parry, and the riposte.

The Thrust

The thrust is a fundamental attack technique in fencing that involves extending the arm and weapon towards the opponent with the aim of making contact. It is a direct and aggressive move that requires precision, speed, and control. To execute a successful thrust, fencers must focus on the following key points:

Extension: Fencers must fully extend their arm, ensuring that the weapon is pointed directly at the target. The extension should be swift and fluid, utilizing the power generated from the legs and core.

Accuracy: Precision is paramount in a successful thrust. Fencers need to aim for the opponent’s target area, which varies depending on the type of fencing (e.g., foil, epee, or saber). Maintaining focus and control throughout the attack is essential to hit the target accurately.

Timing: Timing plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of a thrust. Fencers need to seize the opportune moment to execute the attack, taking advantage of their opponent’s movements or creating openings through feints and footwork


The Parry

The parry is a defensive technique used to deflect or block an opponent’s attack. It is a crucial skill that helps fencers maintain their position and protect themselves from being scored upon. To execute a successful parry, fencers need to master the following aspects:

Blade Control: Fencers must have precise control over their weapon to intercept and redirect their opponent’s attack. This involves using the blade to guide the opponent’s weapon away from the target area, minimizing the risk of being hit.

Footwork: Effective footwork is essential in executing a parry. Fencers need to maneuver their body and maintain distance to ensure that the opponent’s weapon does not find its mark. Proper footwork allows fencers to position themselves advantageously for a counterattack.

Timing and Anticipation: Anticipating the opponent’s attack is crucial in successfully executing a parry. Fencers need to read their opponent’s movements, recognize patterns, and react swiftly. Timing the parry accurately is essential to nullify the attack and create an opportunity for a counterattack..


The Riposte

The riposte is a counterattack that follows a successful parry. It is a swift and aggressive response that aims to take advantage of the opponent’s vulnerable position after their attack has been blocked. Executing a powerful riposte requires mastering the following elements:

Speed and Precision: A riposte needs to be fast and accurate to catch the opponent off guard. Fencers must exploit the momentary opening created by the parry to strike with precision and accuracy, aiming for the opponent’s target area.

Feints and Deception: Incorporating feints and deceptive movements can significantly enhance the effectiveness of a riposte. By misleading the opponent with fake attacks or subtle shifts in body positioning, fencers can create openings and increase the chances of a successful counterattack.

Commitment and Confidence: A successful riposte requires commitment and confidence in one’s abilities. Fencers must trust their training, instincts, and technique to execute a decisive counterattack. Maintaining focus and composure during this critical moment is essential to seize the advantage.

Mastering the fundamental fencing techniques of the thrust, parry, and riposte is essential for any fencer seeking to excel in this elegant and strategic sport. By honing these skills, fencers can build a strong foundation upon which they can develop more advanced techniques and strategies for success on the fencing strip

Stamina is a vary important factor of fencing especially if you choose to do a slower style of fencing like epee
you need to be quick and have precise accuracy you have to be able to initiate attacks flawlessly be able to maneuver your body and control your blade with ease maintain your focuses and steady footwork be able to keep steady and balanced have steady breathing and the mentality to strike. This sport requires the utmost best of its participants they must be able to do all of the above without losing control and focuses without the energy and stamina they will not be able to do so they will lose control over not just their body and blade but the match and there opponent they will not be able to strike with control maneuver and initiate the attack. You will fail even if you have the mind set of winning and the ability to do so you are nothing once your body gives up on you there will be nothing left for you to do you'll be helpless and weak and you will remain so unless you fix the problem stamina that is what you need you need this to strike to outlast your opponent and take the advantage of there weakness and weak points as they seem to lose control as you progress they become defensive. Dose that mean you win? no you have not won unless it is declared so by the officials overseeing the bout no matter the gap in points scored you have not won anything until you are the winner you will be on the same level as them you are nether higher or lower you are one in the same and in order to change that similarity you must strike and win with no hesitation back to the bout they seem to be on the defensive they are running low out of the energy to continue but they have not run out of the will to win they will still strike you down no matter the difference because you are the same until there is a winner if you become carless you will lose they strike we do not just want them to strike we want to force them to corner them to do so make it seem they have no choice that you have let your guard and think that you have already won once they try to take that strike you need to take advantage of there low stamina and see there attack follow there blade and maneuver and take your strike. If you are lacking you must make up for it if its technique then use your stamina build it up so you can find a way to corner them but can you truly just wait it out and outlast them? no you will get flagged you just simply have to make them run out faster then you do but still this dies not mean you will win all this means is that you cant win without stamina so build it.