Fencing, a thrilling and elegant sport, has captivated individuals for centuries. As a novice, you'll discover that mastering the techniques and strategies is only half of your journey. It's also essential to become familiar with its rich and unique terminology. In this article, we delve into the world of fencing sport terms, providing you with a comprehensive guide so you can fully understand and appreciate the art of fencing. Let's get started!
Basic Fencing Terms
- En Garde: The basic stance in fencing, with feet shoulder-width apart and the dominant foot pointing forward. The term is also used to command fencers to assume their starting positions before a bout.
- Lunge: An attacking move in which the fencer extends their front leg and thrusts their weapon towards their opponent.
- Parry: A defensive move in which the fencer deflects an opponent's attack by blocking the attacking weapon with their own.
- Riposte: A counter-attack made immediately after successfully parrying an opponent's attack.
- Fleche: A quick and aggressive attack in which the fencer leaps forward, extending the weapon arm to land a hit on the opponent.
- Balestra: A small, hopping step used by fencers to quickly close the distance between themselves and their opponents.
Technical Terms
- Feint: A false attack intended to deceive the opponent and create an opening for a real attack.
- Beat: A quick, sharp tap on an opponent's blade to initiate an attack or provoke a reaction.
- Disengage: A maneuver in which the fencer moves their blade under or around the opponent's blade, avoiding a parry and continuing an attack.
- Coupe: An attack that passes around the opponent's blade, typically landing on the opposite side of their body.
- Counter-riposte: A second counter-attack launched after the original riposte is parried by the opponent.
- Remise: A second attack made after the first attack has missed or been parried, without retreating to the en garde position.
Fencing Equipment Terms
- Epee: One of the three fencing weapons, with a larger guard and a stiff, triangular blade. Points are scored by hitting the opponent with the tip of the blade anywhere on their body.
- Foil: A lightweight fencing weapon with a flexible, rectangular blade and a small guard. Points are scored by hitting the opponent with the tip of the blade on the torso.
- Sabre: A fencing weapon with a curved, light blade and a knuckle guard. Points are scored by hitting the opponent with the side or tip of the blade, targeting the upper body, arms, and head.
- Lamé: A metallic vest worn by foil and sabre fencers to define the target area for scoring purposes.
- Plastron: A protective, padded garment worn under the fencing jacket to provide additional protection to the sword arm and chest.
- Masks: A piece of protective headgear worn by fencers to protect their face and neck during bouts.
Fencing Sport Terms Example:
Imagine two fencers battling in a thrilling bout. The attacker advances with a balestra and then launches a coupe. The defender, anticipating the move, executes a timely parry, deflecting the attacker's blade. The defender then swiftly ripostes, scoring a point and showcasing a beautiful display of skill and timing.
Now that you've become acquainted with popular fencing sport terms, you're one step closer to fully understanding and appreciating this exciting and unique sport. Share this article with your fellow fencers and fencing enthusiasts, and encourage them to further explore the guides available at Anchorage Fencing Club. Together, let's keep the sport of fencing alive and thriving!
