Children have always enjoyed pretend sword fighting and recent movies and TV advertising campaigns can only have increased the desire to emulate action heroes such as James Bond. The modern sport of fencing is a great way to channel some of that energy!

We start all beginners with foil. An initial training course of 10 weeks is required to build up skills through attention to footwork, blade work, tactics and competitive fencing. Training sessions are held for 1 hour after which beginners are encouraged to watch fencing bouts between the more experienced fencers. Fencing action happens at very high speed and can be difficult for beginners to follow. Watching others helps build up an understanding of right of attack and scoring. After initial training we encourage all members to fence in local and regional competitions where the variety of fencers fought helps build skills and confidence. For further details of our beginners course see here.

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We accept beginners from 8 years to adult. We are an inclusive club and members of all ages have equal access to equipment and coaching. Fencing is more about agility and tactics rather than strength and a skilful child can easily compete with a much larger adult (and thoroughly enjoy it, especially beating Dad!) 

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It’s safe and great fun! All necessary safety equipment is provided for beginners. The minimum equipment for training is a face mask which provides protection to the head and neck, a thick fencing jacket which covers the torso and arms and a padded glove to protect the sword hand. For electric fencing and competitions fencing breeches are worn. A plastron, which provides additional protection for the sword arm and chest, is compulsory. All equipment is built to a high standard approved by the British Fencing Association. 

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 A skillfully delivered fencing attack hurts no more than a tap with a finger! Beginners will learn fencing using a foil which has a very flexible blade. The flex of the blade minimises the force of a direct hit.  

Injuries from sword hits are exceptionally rare and usually amount to no more than minor bruises or welts. These sometimes occur as a result of inexperienced fencers launching over enthusiastic attacks. The most common injuries are usually muscle strains through improper warm up! 

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Wear flat soled shoes such as tennis or squash trainers. This is very important for good footwork and protecting ankles from injury. Thick soled “fashion” trainers are not recommended. 

To start with you will need a glove. This item of equipment becomes “personalized” very quickly so we do not supply these. Many gardening gloves are suitable; make sure it is made from some thick material such as leather or a man made material with similar properties. Proper fencing gloves are inexpensive and you can order these via the club.  

Wear thick jogging pants and socks to protect the legs or if desired fencing breeches. These can be ordered via the club.

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Parents are welcome to stay watch during the session, or even join in too. We have several adult members who started as spectators!

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