Olympic Fencing

Olympic fencing is comprised of three different weapons with slightly different characteristics:

Foil

Foil is called a "point" weapon, which means that the only way to score on an opponent is to hit with the tip of the of the blade. Foil blades have the smallest guard and tend to be the most bendable of the three weapons. Fencers can score points attacking the torso of their opponent.

Epee

Also a point weapon, Epee distinguishes itself from foil in weapon size, target area, and strategy. Epee blades tend to be heavier and less flexible than those of a foil and the guard around the blade is significantly bigger. Fencers competing in epee can hit anywhere on their opponent (head to toe) to score points.

Sabre

Reminiscent of the weapon once used by cavalry soldiers, Sabre is most distinguished from the other two weapons by the fact that competitors can score points with any part of the blade (think slashing, instead of stabbing). Saber has a unique guard and fencers can hit anywhere waist and above to score.

CLASSES

Children's Class:
Our kids classes are specially designed to teach the basics of fencing in a fun way. Games are used for learning strategy and visual perception with integrated fencing technique. The young fencers learn body awareness, balance, agility and sportsmanship. During every class, the fencers bout with each other and have occasional competitions for fun.

Youth Class:
Youths are taught the techniques and concepts of fencing (footwork, positions, blade exercises) with a strong emphasis on games. Strategy games, which carry over to all sports, are a major element of instruction. Body awareness develops quickly through fencing, as young fencers focus on control in fine movement, how to manipulate the weapon and how to relate to an opponent's distance and movements. The emphasis is on development and having fun while learning the sport.

Teen Class:
Teens learn the concepts and strategies of fencing with an emphasis on either epee, sabre or foil. They receive instruction in blade technique, mobility, strategy and bouting. Skills develop rapidly and carry over to other sports. Extra bouting time is available before and after class. The emphasis is on learning, but fun is an important ingredient of the training.

Adult Class:
Adult fencing classes are focused on acquiring technical skills and learning critical tactical skills for fencing. Practice is designed to be fun, while creating a foundation of physical fitness for the sport. All three weapons are taught, with foil emphasized for newcomers. This class is a perfect fit for fencers looking to stay active while still developing their skills. All experience levels are welcome.

Competitive Practice:
Practice sessions are open to adult, teen and youth fencers who compete and train for competition. Practice is more physically demanding and is focused on performance, the strategies necessary for competition, and the technical skills required. The practices are meant as training sessions and do not deal with basic skills. Fencers must be assessed before joining.

Open Bouting:
Open bouting is available when floor space permits. Classes and private lessons have priority on the floor, and CBA reserves the right to end bouting at any time.