Fencing is an ancient practice that dates back to the days of early Greek and Roman civilizations. Fencing competitions take place worldwide and many countries compete in fencing events at the Olympics. The United States Fencing Association , or USFA, is the recognized governing body for fencing in the United States and abides by Olympic fencing scoring standards, according to USA Fencing.
Weapons
The foil, epee and saber are the weapons used in fencing, and each weapon is electronically wired to record hits for scoring. Only hits to the torso are considered for scoring with the foil and epee, according to the Telegraph. Points are also counted for hitting arms and legs with the saber. The epee is a heavy, traditional weapon, the foil is light and flexible and the saber derives from military weaponry and is also light.
Uniforms
Fencing outfits are also wired electronically so that when weapons make contact, an electronic circuit is completed triggering scoring. The fencing jacket, called a lame, is made with metal fibers. Fencers wear protective clothing such as a mesh face guard and the lame is also designed for protection, according to BBC.
Parameters
Based on the different weapons, all contests are divided into three strands and take place on a surface called a piste. The fencing matches are nine minutes long, and moves are categorized as such: riposte, an attack following a defensive dodge; balestra, a short, quick forward jump; and a corps a corps, a bout including bodily contact, according to The Telegraph.
U.S. Olympic Team
Although the sport of fencing at the Olympics has typically been dominated by Europeans, U.S. Olympic Team members have captured medals, including U.S. champion Albert Axelrod, who won a bronze medal in the Individual Foil competition at Olympic Games in 1960, according to the ACFA.
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