Fencing is Fun! (And it doesn't hurt) (Fencing - General)

Member Name: Squiddly450

Product:	Fencing - General
Date:	16/02/09 (93 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Keeps you physically and mentally fit.

Disadvantages: Kit can be expensive

I took up fencing when I started at Uni, in 1999 (yikes, where did the last 10 years go!!). Like most of you I assumed that everyone who was into this "minority" sport, wore metallica t-shirts and had long greasy hair. Don't get me wrong, there are lots of them around. When hubby and I go to fencing comps (he only watches if there is no football or rugby on) he spends the whole day people watching and laughing to himself at the number of "weirdos".

I digress, I fence epee and don't really know much about the other weapons. If you are looking for a sport to get into in later life, I can't recommend fencing enough.
As a weight bearing exercise it is great for bone density (vv important for us ladies) but you can take it as steady as you like. It tones up your legs and butt cheeks which is a definite bonus for me, yet the cardiovasular side isn't as hardcore as say swimming, hockey or jogging for example. The best fencers have excellent CV fitness but I would say if you are taking it up to "stay young", you will stay pretty fit just by fencing and without having to take yourself out on long tedious runs.

It keeps you mentally agile as well, as you are constantly thinking in terms of tactics and trying to outwit your opponent.

If you want to just have a go and do some low level training at a club, you will probably be able to borrow the kit you need and not have to buy the equipment which can be expensive. I would probably recommend getting your own mask and gloves though as other people's sweaty hands and foreheads don't flick my switch.

If you decide you would like to pit your skills against other folk though, there are hundreds of competitions you can try, starting at club competition nights, moving to county champs and then "open comps" which attract some of the best fencers in the UK (and sometimes Europe).

Since I started working and got a small scholarship from the Army, I have represented my home country and am aiming for the Commonwealth Fencing Champs next year.

I would recommend having a go, it's so much fun and the adrenaline you get from actually having a fight with someone, is brilliant.

Summary: Have a go, you might love it.