Fencing: Then and Now
Jaw-dropping swordplay and charged up entertainment are not just found in the latest pirate epic on the silver screen. The sport of fencing has all the excitement of swordplay, without the messy results! Swords in the context of battle is nothing new, and in fact goes back to ancient times. Fencing evolved into a sport of its own, and within a few hundred years, rules emerged to define the sport. Fencing equipment evolved right alongside the sport itself.
Fencing was one of the original sports included in the modern Olympics starting in 1896. The foil is the most common type of fencing sword, and is often the choice of beginners in the sport. The foil began as a training tool in the 1700s, something beginners used before taking up a small sword. When going for a target, the foil user is typically aiming for the torso of the body. In later year, the Olympic committed added events to the fencing competition, including the epee and the saber. The epee is similar to the foil in that you score with the point of the weapon, though it is heavier with a three-sided, stiffer blade. When engaging with the epee, the target area is not restricted to the torso. In fact, hits to the arm are the norm and a hit to the foot is quite dramatic.
The saber excels at cutting and thrusting, which is one of the reasons that competitors can use the edge of the blade to earn what are considered valid touches in competition. The foil and the epee valid touches are determined by the point landing on the opponent.
The epee was introduced for women’s competition in 1996, and the saber in 2004. One goes back to 1924 to find the first women’s foil fencing showcased as an event. Individual and team events comprise the competition.
Fencing gear includes protective clothing that helps guard against injury. This is vital in the sport of fencing, where a lack of such could lead to serious bodily harm. Gear used includes a chest protector for women, gloves, jacket, mask, under-arm protector, special fencing shoes, socks, and pants.
The story of competitive fencing goes back for many years. Taking part in the sport of fencing is a unique experience, and one that gives you a taste of a history. You could be a participant in the middle of the action, or you could just be a fascinated observer; in any case, there is so much to enjoy about the exciting sport of fencing.
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