Frequently Asked Questions

 Here's the top ten list of questions!

 

Why fence?

Everyone needs exercise.  Fencing is a great way to enjoy a workout.  Unlike many other combative sports, fencers may fight each other at full speed several times in a practice session without injury.  There are three different weapons to learn, and there's always someone in the club who will challenge your abilities.  Fencers are a unique bunch, and they're fun to hang out with.  If all you want is a workout, you'll have a blast doing it.  If you're the psychotic competitive type and you want to compete on any level, you have a place to start and train.

 

Is fencing safe?

Very.  You are far more likely to suffer a pulled muscle than a stab wound while fencing.  Yes, blades have broken and caused injury, but it is extremely rare.  All fencing blades have a protective point at the tip which spreads the force over a larger area, preventing injury.  Yes, it occasionally smarts a little, but far less than paintball.  The protective clothing absorbs the blade's energy.

 

What kind of organization is La Belle Fencing Club?

We are primarily a recreational club.  Some members do compete on occasion but most members participate for fun and fitness.  All dues collected are used for club-owned equipment, insurance and the club's membership dues with the USFA.  There are no paid members and coaches are volunteers. 

 

What ages do you train?  Is it a good sport for kids?

People of all ages may enjoy the sport.  There are divisions for junior, senior, and veteran fencers in US Fencing Association.  Some of our club’s best fencers are over 40.  At higher levels of competition or large tournaments, men and women compete separately.  In the club or smaller tournaments, events are "mixed" and they compete together.

At present, our club is not large enough to support a separate youth program and our members are generally high school through vet (40+) in age range.  It is recommended that fencers entering our club be at least 13 years of age.

 

Any advice for parents?

It's important for kids to understand that fencing is a sport and athletic!  They will be hot and tired at the end of practice.  It's not what you see in swashbuckling movies! 

It is important that athletes be self-motivated to get the most out of a practice session.  It's important to ask questions of other fencers and learn as much as possible through online research and reading.

I advise parents not to hit the web and start buying gear online.  Wait until your fencer knows exactly what they want and need before buying.  Make sure they are committed to the sport enough to research their own equipment before taking the plunge.  Coaches and other fencers will help them find out what type of gear they need.

Visit the resources page for more info.

 

I'm sold.  How do I get started?

If you've never fenced before, take the beginner's class.  It's listed under the "classes" link.  This will give you the skills needed to get started with the club.  You'll also get three months membership to decide if fencing is right for you.

If you've fenced before, even back in the dark ages, just come to a practice and check it out.  We'll give you some time to make a decision before you join.

To be a club member, you must join the U.S. Fencing Association.  In addition, our club dues are the same amount and due dates as USFA dues.  See the membership link for more info.

 

How much does it cost?

  A starter set consisting of a foil, jacket, mask and glove costs around $100 from most vendors.  The club loans equipment during classes and regular club meetings.  Club members will be happy to help you select your own equipment when you’re ready.  Competition gear costs $300+.  We strongly recommend that you consult a coach before purchasing equipment.  Club fees are listed in the membership section.

Visit the resources page for more info.

 

What should I bring to my first class?

Bring your usual work-out stuff: water, towel, comfortable clothing, etc.  There's a detailed list on the class link.

 

What kind of shape do I need to be in? 

If you can play tennis, racquetball or any similar sport, you can fence.  Don’t be discouraged if you’re a little out of shape.  Our club exists because we enjoy the sport, not because we are professional athletes.  We’re all average people.

 

What happens in a practice session?

Depending on the session, we sometimes work on specific skills or just fence.  The schedule is usually posted here, on the Facebook page or in a club e-mail.

 

How large is the club?

The club usually has a roll of about 20 fencers.  Practices will see anywhere from 3 to about 10 fencers at present.

 

What's the difference between sport fencing, classical fencing and reenactment fencing? 

Sport fencing is just that: a sport.  It's what you see in the Olympics.  There is a lot of history in the sport, but the modern-day techniques are different from the traditional styles. 

Classical fencing uses different techniques specific to dueling.  Some fence one-touch bouts (simulating first blood) and do not use a strip.  Some groups use old training techniques from centuries-old writings.  It's an interesting look into fencing's history.

Reenactment fencing, like the Society for Creative Anachronism, is a complete enactment of sword fighting down to the costumes.  They wear period-correct clothing and use different weapons from the middle ages. 

 

Isn’t fencing an aristocratic sissy sport? 

That's a stereotype.  Anyone with that opinion has never seen or tried it.