September 04, 2007

Fencing for Novices

Please refer back to general information for more information on what you should be wearing for fencing practice!

So what exactly is fencing? Here are some links which will help shed some light on this mysterious yet sexy sport we call FENCING.

What is fencing?
http://www.britishfencing.com/about-fencing/what-is-fencing

What is fencing? – This useful site provides a good overview and explanation on fencing, competitive fencing, modern weapons used in fencing and its differences, weapon descriptions, competitive fencing, history, protective clothing used, techniques, fencing salute, “right of way” rules, other rules and protocols, etc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fencing

Modern Fencing Weapons:
Foil: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foil_%28sword%29
Epee: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89p%C3%A9e
Sabre: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabre_%28fencing%29

You might come across a strange language we like to call fencing jargon during fencing practice. That’s okay. This will help ease the pain.

Glossary of fencing terms:
http://www.britishfencing.com/about-fencing/glossary_of_terms

If you enjoy fencing enough to want to continue year after year, it might be good to start investing in fencing equipment bit by bit. If you are on a tight budget, you can start off with fencing gloves and eventually move on to purchasing a weapon, mask or whichever is most affordable to you. Aside from purchasing individual pieces of equipment, there is another option. You could also purchase a starter kit. With starter kits, you are buying everything at once (a full set) and usually, vendors sell kits at a discounted price. In the end, if you bought a kit and compared the cost to buying equipment individually, you will be saving a lot with the kit. You can choose which kit you want (there is a kit for each weapon) and the equipment you get may depend on the weapon you choose. Kits usually come with a weapon of choice, jacket, glove, mask and sometimes a bag and plastron. Starter kits can also vary with fencing experience (e.g. basic, advanced, competition range). Regardless of cost, you should invest in good quality equipment. The equipment is there to protect YOU. Remember, kids: safety first.

Here is a good site on buying equipment: http://www.britishfencing.com/about-fencing/buying_equipment

Here are a few fencing equipment vendors which sell good quality fencing gear and starter kits. With the strong Canadian dollar, it might be good to order equipment from the US (same company, same equipment but they have set up new shops in different countries so you save on shipping costs).

Absolute Fencing Gear: http://www.absolutefencinggear.com

Leon Paul USA: http://www.leonpaulusa.com

PBT USA Sport Fencing Equipment: http://www.fencepbt.com