Skill development

[capa]

I'm a beginner. Basically, I would very much appreciate any advice from you experienced fencers that could help me develop my skills while at home or alone.

Is it possible to practice fencing skills while alone? How is this done? Would it be a good idea to use a weapon? I have heard of using a hanging tennis ball as a target, should a weapon be used to hit the tennis ball or something else? How is this exercise done? Are there more important exercises? Should I direct this question to my coach?

Also, if a pratice weapon is recommended, what would be best? Foil, Epee, Sabre? Italian, French, pistol grip? There also different blade qualities. Would a standard cheap weapon be okay for home practice? I think it will be a while until competitions are viable so would it be a waste to buy a good quality elecric weapon?

Thanks. Any advice would be great. I am very impressed with the technicalities of the sport and would love to hear any advice that would help me develop fencing skills.

[noodle]

<a href="http://www.fencing101.com/vb/showthread.php?t=11038" target="_blank">relaventnt link</a>

i'd suggest you take this issue up with your coach first. the problem is that, since you're unsure which weapon to buy, that means you're reasonably new and haven't set yourself in a weapon. you might want to consider asking your coach about this issue.

as for a weapon, like i said, ask your coach. if he doesn't want you fencing electric at first, an electric weapon might not be economical, shoot, it might even have broken before you finally fence electric. try grips out at the club if you can to find out which one you like best. this is important. get what feels right for you. if you're reasonably close to fencing electrically, practice or tournaments, an electric weapon is what you want, though.

[D'Artag-NOT]

Definitely ask your coach about weapons and bladework and such, but one thing no fencer can ever practice enough is footwork. Advances, retreats, lunges, footwork, footwork, footwork. Not only do you need to practice the skill, but you also need to strengthen the muscles, which you don't use so much in day-to-day life.

Have a session with your coach to ensure that your stance and footwork are correct and then practice, practice, practice.