Fencing is a sport that can be enjoyed by individuals of any age, including seniors. It's never too late to learn how to fence. In fact, there are national and world championship competitions for participants older than age 60 and even age 70. Despite competitors actually hitting each other with the weapons, protective clothing, gear and equipment help to make fencing a safe sport for anyone.
Fencing Basics
According to the Metropolitan Division of the U.S. Fencing Association, statistics show that fencing ranks as one of the safest sports. Although infrequent injuries do occur, they are usually in the form of twists or sprains. Fencing is appropriate for all age categories, as it is competitive and recreational. The goal is to attack and defend. The sport of fencing is a moderate-intensity physical activity that can help keep you active, healthy and in shape. It's a form of exercise that improves coordination, mobility and endurance. Fencing also requires speed, flexibility and strength. The sport calls for mental concentration and strategic thinking, but the rules are simple. There are general rules, which apply to all forms of fencing. However, depending on the type weapon you choose, there are specific rules that apply as well. While many competitions are open to participants of all ages, some competitions are age specific.
Foil Fencing
In the foil style of fencing, the idea is if you are being attacked, you must defend yourself. But if you are the fencer taking the attack position, your objective is to score. You score points by touching your opponent on the torso or back with the tip of the blade. The tip of a fencing weapon is blunt, so it will not penetrate the protective clothing you wear. The valid target area does not include the arms, neck, head or legs. Each time you score a touch, you receive a point. The goal is to score more points than your opponent. In the sport of fencing, scoring is done electronically.
Epee Fencing
The epee style of fencing is based on dueling; therefore, the fencer who touches his opponent first earns points. If both fencers touch each other at the same time, each earns a point. The strategy for epee is to touch your opponent without being touched yourself. Epee can be challenging, as the entire body is a target. When the score is tied, fencing bouts continue until one of the competitors' scores without being touched. Like foil fencing, fencers thrust with the point of the weapon. If the weight of the weapon is a concern, the epee weapon is a bit heavier than the foil or saber.
Saber Fencing
Saber is the fastest pace style of fencing. Unlike foil and epee, a fencer can score points with the tip and edge of the weapon. Only touches above the waistline are valid. The target area includes the arms and head. Like for any other exercise or fitness program, you should get your doctor's approval before you take up the sport of fencing.
Right-of-Way
The rule of right-of-way applies to foil and saber fencing. It is meant to distinguish between offense and defense. The referee makes the call when both fencers hit each other and score at the same time. The point is then awarded to the competitor whom the referee determines was on the offense at the time.
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