Modern fencing, or Olympic fencing, to distinguish it from historical fencing (HEMA), is a combat sport that uses a form of historical swords as weapons. Fencing is one of four sports that have been part of every modern Olympic Games. It is divided into three different disciplines or weapon categories: épée, foil, and sabre.

The rules for foil and sabre are similar. In these, the attack has priority, and the defender must parry before they can counterattack. In épée, it doesnt matter who attacks first, the goal is simply to strike first. If both fencers land a hit at the same time in épée, both score a point. In competitions, the first round is called the "poule" stage (everyone fences everyone), and each match goes to five points. Then there is direct elimination, where bouts go to 15 points.

Épée
An épée weighs about 750 grams and is the heaviest of the three weapons. It is a thrusting weapon, with a tip at the end of the blade that compresses when a hit is made, lighting up a signal. The rules for épée are simple – it’s about hitting first. If both fencers hit at the same time, both score. The target area is the entire body, from head to foot. At FF Ça Va, we currently focus exclusively on épée.

Foil
Foil is the lightest of the weapons. The target area is the torso, meaning only hits to the upper body are allowed – not to the mask, arms, or legs. The rules for foil are a bit more complex than épée. Simply put, the fencer must initiate the attack to score.

Sabre
Sabre is the only weapon that is not purely a thrusting weapon. In sabre, one can also slash to score a hit. The target area is everything above the waist. Like foil, sabre also follows rules where the attacker must have priority to score.

Equipment
A fencer wears white knickers-style fencing pants, a fencing vest, and a plastron (an under-vest that protects the shoulder area). The clothing is made from Kevlar, a very strong and durable fabric used in bulletproof vests and airplanes. To protect the head, the fencer wears a mask, and on the hand, a fencing glove. There are specially designed fencing shoes, but in the beginning, regular indoor athletic shoes with light soles are fine.

Fencing is a sport that promotes balance and both fine and gross motor skills. Modern fencing offers everything needed to achieve body balance: agility, flexibility, speed, excitement, and training that enhances coordination and mental focus.

Fencing also requires mental strength. You constantly need to outsmart, deceive, and stay one step ahead of your opponent. It’s a challenging sport on a higher level.

All training involves controlled movements under the guidance of a skilled coach.

Welcome to FF Ça Va and fencing for everyone! For good health and enjoyable social interaction!

"Escrime Pour Tous" (Fencing for Everyone)