HISTORY
The sword is one of the oldest of weapons and many different types have been used throughout history. There are pictures of Egyptians practicing with swords in about 1200 BC. Romans used short swords for hand-to-hand combat. Suits of armour and shields were used by medieval knights and their swords were so large that they required both hands to wield them.
Modern fencing has retained the basic aim of dueling - hitting your opponent without getting hit yourself! Many of the same rules still apply. Today’s fencers use lightweight blunted swords to play a game of skilful, physical chess. As one of the original modern Olympic sports, fencing rewards mental agility over power and size. Fencers spend many hours developing the skills, speed and fitness required to succeed in national and international competition.
Fencing is one of the safest sports around. A mask, jacket and glove are worn whenever you face an opponent with a weapon. The mask has a metal or special plastic front. The jacket and glove contain the same fibres as bullet proof jackets. Swords are blunted and have button points.In modern fencing there are three main weapon categories, each with their own individual nuances and variations in rules.They are........
FOIL
Descended from the 18th century small sword, the foil has a thin, flexible blade with a small guard. Hits are scored with the point only on the torso of the opponent. With such a small target, precision and strong defence are essential. Hits are awarded according to which competitor ‘has the right’ of way i.e. began the successful attack.
EPEE
Similar to the dueling swords of the 19th century, the epee has a stiff heavier triangular blade with a large guard to protect the hand and wrist. Hits are scored with the point anywhere on the body. The first fencer to hit, scores. Simultaneous hits both score. Timing, point control and a good counter attack are important.
SABRE
Descended from the dueling sabres of the 19th century which in turn originated as the naval and cavalry sabres. Blade is slightly broader and has a knuckle guard. Hits are scored with either the point or edge of the blade anywhere on the upper torso, including the head. ‘Right of way’ applies here as well. Speed, feints and strong offence are the techniques of a good sabreur. |
