Whatever the reason, fencing is a sport that requires speed, stamina, and skill. With team sports, you work together toward a common goal. Fencing, however, pits two minds against each other in a test of will, ingenuity, and training. I would describe fencing as being very much like chess, with a limited number of moves to perform (pawns, etc.), but having only an average of a tenth of a second to perceive your opponents actions, and respond with your own.
Officially an Olympic sport since the last century, Fencing has evolved considerably in that time, and is practiced in three major styles, each game having its own unique flavor and nuances.
Foil fencing was developed late in the eighteenth century as practice for real swordplay, using a sword with a light, flexible blade so as not to harm your fencing partner. (If you maim your playmates, then soon no one will want to play with you.) The scoring area is only that which would produce a lethal result, excluding the head. (They didn't have effective fencing masks then.) There is also a very structured set of rules as to the order of attack called "right-of-way." This is designed to ensure that only one person can score at a time, reinforcing the concept that surviving a swordfight is preferable, and dying while killing your opponent is considered to be somewhat counterproductive. All points in foil and epee fencing are scored with the tip of the blade, and all other contact with the blade is ignored.
Epee' fencing is much closer to a real duel than the other two weapon styles, with no rules for right-of-way, and the entire body is considered to be fair target. If both fencers hit simultaneously, both players score.
Saber fencing is descendant of cavalry fighting from horseback, and like foil fencing, has right-of-way rules. The target area is from the waist up, including the arms and head. Touches are scored primarily with the edge of the sword, with the top third of the back of the blade is considered to be sharp as well.
Whether with foil, epee, or saber, fencing can be practiced competitively or recreationally for as long as health and desire allows. Some people have been known to fence through middle age, and into their 80's and 90's. These hardy souls make up for their lack of mobility with their years of practice and knowledge, and are almost always formidable opponents even when confined to wheelchairs. (Don't laugh, I've seen it!) While building grace, stamina, and confidence, fencing can be enjoyed for a short time (You can tell your kids & grandkids that you know how to swordfight.), or for a lifetime. (You can swordfight WITH your kids & grandkids.)
As long as there are romantic and adventuresome individuals, the art and sport of fencing will continue to allure those who would challenge their minds and bodies in the pursuit of excitement, adventure, and the hands of fair maidens. (Or princes, as the case may be.)
The Sport And Art Of The Sword
Chapter one: The Pre-history Of Fencing
Chapter Two: Through The Ages
Chapter Three: The Evolution Of Fencing
Chapter Five: Da Rules
Chapter Six: An Exercise Regimen
Chapter Seven: The Zen Of Fencing
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