This part of our web guide highlights fencing, a combat sport that features swords.
Sometimes described as "physical chess," fencing combines agility, strategy, and precision.
The origins of fencing can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The earliest depictions of swordplay date back to 1190 BC in Egypt, where reliefs show combatants with covered sword points and protective gear. Swordsmanship was also practiced by the Persians, Greeks, Romans, and other European groups, with the Romans using the discipline for systematic training for their soldiers and gladiators.
As a structured sport, fencing took shape in the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Italian school of fencing emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries, while the French school refined many of the techniques, establishing rules that are still in use today. By the 18th century, fencing had evolved into a sport with codified rules and specialized equipment.
Modern fencing consists of three primary disciplines, each named for the type of blade used: the foil, the épée, and the sabre.
The foil is a lightweight weapon with a flexible blade and a small guard. It is used to target the torso. Points are scored by thrusting with the tip of the blade.
The épée is a heavier weapon with a stiffer blade and larger guard, used to target the entire body. Points are scored by thrusting with the tip.
The sabre is a cutting and thrusting weapon targeting the upper body, including the head and arms. Points are scored with both the edge and the tip of the blade.
In fencing, bouts are conducted on a strip called a piste. Matches are typically divided into three periods of three minutes each, with the goal of scoring a set number of points or having the highest score at the end of the time limit.
Besides the weapons discussed above, the equipment involved in fencing includes protective gear, such as a mask, jacket, underarm protector, glove, and breeches. Masks are designed to withstand significant impact and protect the face and neck. Electric scoring equipment is used in competitive fencing to register touches accurately. This includes body cords, lamé jackets (for foil and sabres), and scoring machines.
Fencing techniques embrace offensive and defensive maneuvers. A lunge is a fundamental attacking move where the fencer extends his front leg and arm to reach the opponent, while a parry is a defensive action to block or deflect an opponent's attack. A riposte is a counter-attack made immediately after a successful parry, and a feint is a deceptive move intended to provoke a reaction from the opponent. Advanced techniques combine these basic moves, combined with strategic footwork to control distance and timing.
The international governing body for fencing is the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE), which oversees international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympic Games. National federations, such as USA Fencing, govern the sport nationally.
The three main disciplines (foil, épée, and sabre) dominate competitive fencing, although there are other variants. Wheelchair Fencing adapts the sport for athletes with disabilities, using the same weapons and rules but conducted from a stationary position. Historical Fencing focuses on the techniques and weapons used in historical European martial arts, often involving reenactments and demonstrations. Modern Pentathlon includes fencing as one of its five disciplines, typically using épée in a round-robin format.
Fencing is a dynamic sport with deep historical roots and a structured contemporary framework. Its blend of physical and mental challenges adds to its uniqueness.
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Recommended Resources
The AFF is the national governing body for the sport of fencing in Australia. Founded in 1949, the organization is a full member of the Combat Institute of Australia, and is made up of six member states: ACT Fencing Association, NSW Fencing Association, Queensland Fencing Association, Fencing South Australia, Fencing Victoria, and Western Australia Fencing Association. Information on becoming a coach or referee are stated, along with its coach development programs, and competitions.
https://www.ausfencing.org/
Created in 1995, the website began as a regular posting of old training journals, notes from various tournaments and summer camps, and as much updated world fencing news as could be found. Then, photographs began to be posted. Over time, an online community of fencers grew, with active members discussing news and giving advice to new fencers and parents. Today, the site is a leading news source, guide, and community for Olympic and sport fencing. Fencing clubs, guides, and rules are provided.
https://fencing.net/
International Fencing Federation
Known in French as the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE), the international governing body of Olympic fencing is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland. Formed in France in 1913, the FIE is composed of 155 national federations, each of which is recognized by its country's Olympic Committee as the sole representative of Olympic-style fencing in that country. Referee development, results, competitions, athletes, and rankings are covered, along with media data.
https://fie.org/
Incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1979, the organization was known as the Ontario Fencers' Association before its incorporation. Its history, mandate, policies and procedures, membership information, and an introduction to its board of directors and committee members are set forth, along with upcoming programs and competitions, funding opportunities, announcements, a list of fencing clubs, and an online contact form for general inquiries and other contacts.
https://fencingontario.ca/
United States Fencing Coaches Association, The
Established in 1941, the USFCA is an association of U.S. fencing coaches, and a national academy of the Academie d'Armes Internationale (AAI), the world organization of fencing masters and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Its educational programs, certifications, collegiate fencing programs, and a history of the organization are set forth. Other resources include membership data, a list of current members, awards, memorials, news, and contact data.
https://usfca.org/
The United States Fencing Association (USFA) is the national governing body for the sport of fencing in the United States. Founded in 1891 as the Amateur Fencers League of America, the organization changed its name in 1981 and is affiliated with the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime. The website highlights membership types, including costs and the facilities to join online. Clubs and Divisions may be found through the website, and an introduction to Team USA is included.
https://www.usafencing.org/
The national governing body of fencing in Wales organizes competitions including the Welsh Open, and is responsible for the selection and management of the Wales representative squad, who compete in the Winton Cup and the Commonwealth Games. At the European and World Championships, Welsh fencers represent Great Britain, if selected. Member clubs are featured, along with their selection criteria, policies, governance, DBS registration, competitions, and contacts.
https://www.welshfencing.org/
