Learn to Fence

 

Our Introduction classes are designed for people with little or no previous fencing experience.  

 

Over 8 weeks you will learn the basic moves for attack and defense, simple tactics, and how to put these together in a bout against an opponent.  You will also learn safe practices and the rules of the game.

 

Each class runs for 2 hours, ensuring all students have plenty of time to learn and practice new skills, ask questions, and still have time for warm-up and cool-down routines.

• These courses are suitable for anyone aged over 16. 

• We provide high-quality equipment for use in the course, you do not need to buy your own.

• At the completion of the course, all students receive a certificate and are entitled to a free development planning session. 

 

Choose Your Weapon

There are 3 fencing weapons, each with their own distinctive style and methods.  You can take an Introduction course in any of the three, check the Schedule to see what courses are currently available. 

Whichever you choose, the skills you learn in the course are easily transferable to the other weapons.  It is not uncommon for people to try two, or even all three weapons.

 

Foil
The foil is based on the Smallsword – the last sword to be commonly worn in the courts of Europe.  It is the lightest of the fencing weapons and has the smallest target area to hit.  It is a fast and highly tactical game of accuracy and bluff.

Epee
The epee is based on the dueling Rapier as used in the renaissance.  It has a larger guard and is heavier than the foil, with the whole body counting as target area.
It is a slower and more cautious game than foil with points more likely to won by patient cunning and subtle tactics than by speed.

Sabre
The sabre is based on the dueling Sabre as used by cavalry officers.  Points can be scored with the edge as well as the point, making for an even faster and more aggressive game that nonetheless requires great control and coordination.