Fencing is a sport in which contestants duel with swords; competitions are held from the local and regional levels to the Olympic Games. The rules governing competition worldwide were developed in the mid-17th century and evolved through the early 20th century.
Types of Weapons
Three types of swords — a foil, an epee, and a saber — are used in fencing events. Most fencers generally focus on one of these weapons, though some practice all three types.
The saber is a modern version of the slashing cavalry sword, the Cutting Edge Fencing website notes, and can be used to score a touch with either its point or its edge. The entire body above the waist is considered a valid target in saber competition.
The foil is the most common sword used in fencing. It has a thin blade with a blunt end, and touches are scored by thrusting. Some foils are electric, and register touches by an internal circuit that activates when the tip of the foil is pressed against the opponent’s body. Fencers using electric foils wear a uniform with an electrically wired metallic lamé over the target area, including the fencer’s mask. A hit to the lamé will indicate a touch by displaying a colored light on the side of the fencer who scores the touch.
The epee is a modern smallsword, or duelling sword, and is most effective as a thrusting weapon. It differs from a foil in that it has a thicker, heavier blade, with a larger bell guard.
Uniform Requirements
In full uniform, the fencer’s off hand is the only area of exposed skin. A mesh mask covers the face, allowing the fencer to see while protecting from injury. Knee-high white socks are worn beneath shoes designed specifically for fencing, or, if fencing shoes are unavailable, shoes with as little sole as possible. Athletic supporters and cups are strongly advised for men, but are not required. Breast-protectors are required for women, optional for men. Under-arm protectors, jackets, and gloves are also part of the uniform. If fencing electric, lamé is worn over the uniform in designated target spots on the body.
Scoring and Winning
A contestant wins one point every time he lands a valid hit, also called a touch, on the opponent. If a contestant backs away from his opponent too far, and crosses the end line of the fencing strip, the opponent is awarded a touch. Direct-elimination bouts last 11 minutes, with three three-minute combat periods interspersed with one-minute breaks. In direct-elimination play, the first contestant to reach 15 points wins. In preliminary pool play, only five points are required. If neither contestant scores the required number of points, the player with the higher score at the end of the time limit wins.
In tournaments, five to seven fencers take turns facing each other in a preliminary pool round. Each individual’s win-loss record, and number of touches scored, help officials determine how each is seeded into direct-elimination competition. Direct-elimination bouts then continue until one fencer is left standing.
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