Fencing

I havn’t been to London yet… I’m sick of reiterating goals, expectations, and things to look forward to of the trip. With a lack of a previous London experience, I decided to write about something I associate with the location, even if it may be a bit of a generalization.

Fencing brings images of spoiled-rich brats prancing about in upper-class British accents while poking each other with swords. That being the case, I fence. These stereotypes are not always true, and I can say that confidently since I have fenced before. Though I am not sure what qualifies one as a “fencer”, it may have something to do with competing professionally (which I have never done). What I have is some experience spanning the range of 4 years, though I have fenced on and off for only months at a time.

There are three types of fencing swords, or styles. The foil is the most easily recognizable as the classic fencing sword. The foil requires fast reaction speed; the lightest blade of the three, the thin blade is meant to lightly strike the tough fabric of the jacket. The blade is flexable enough to bend without applying too much pressure. Feeling nothing more than a light poke, fencing with a foil is the beginning step in fencing.

Fencing with a sabre is the most intense. A round lasts only moments, since the goal is to strike, slap, or tap the opponent as fast as possible. The speed of the fencers and flatness of the metal blade often leaves long red welts on the upper back or midsection. The sabre also has an extra defensive part to cover the hand.

Fencing with an Epee is what you get when you cross a heavier, more substantial version of a foil with an all-encompassing striking area. To score a point with an Epee, you can strike almost anywhere on the body, as opposed to a more limited area with the foil. This sword requires more swordplay than the rest and most-closely resembles the swashbuckling seen in movies.