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Fencing: Then and Now
Amazing swordplay and high-action entertainment are not reserved for your favorite pirate epics. The sport of fencing has all the excitement of swordplay, without the messy results! The use of swords in battle goes back to the ancient eras, and by the middle ages, it had become particularly popular among the English gentry. 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. Initially a training tool for smaller swords, the foil emerged in the 1700s. 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 different in philosophy from the foil and the epee weapon features a heavier weight and a three-sided, stiffer blade. Those using an epee are not only aiming for the torso, but can target other areas of the body like the arm and even the foot.
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. In the case of the foil and the epee, where the point lands determines a valid touch.
Women’s saber fencing was introduced in 2004, and epee prior to that in 1996. Women have been competing in the foil fencing events going all the way back to 1924.
Fencing gear is not just comprised of the weapons; protective clothing is vital in preventing injury. One should never fence without appropriate gear, since serious injury could otherwise occur. Gear used includes a chest protector for women, gloves, jacket, mask, under-arm protector, special fencing shoes, socks, and pants.
Fencing is an exciting competitive sport that has a long and storied past. Taking part in the sport of fencing is a unique experience, and one that gives you a taste of a history. Whether participating in the action or just being a spectator at an event, this is much to love about this fantastic sport.
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