About Fencing
Fencing calls for adaptability, inventiveness, good organization, and patience. This is achieved by good partnership between the fencer and the fencing master or Maitre. Hard effort is needed if a competitor is to be ready for a match, and long hours must be spent in training, where great attention and discipline are needed. It is one of only four sports that have been featured in every Olympic Games, beginning in 1896.
Fencing evolved from an ancient form of combat where the fencer tries to score the total hits needed to win, while at the same time dexterously avoids being hit by the opponent. The sport has been described as "physical chess," signifying the complicated strategy and focus lying behind the thrusts and parries of fencing duels or bouts. It is well known for its power to develop character and self-esteem, increase balance, flexibility, and coordination, develop physical endurance, and expand intellectual and mental powers.
Foil, epee and sabre are the three weapons used in the sport of Fencing, in which both men and women compete. The target areas, as well as the blade, differ for the three types of weapons.
