Reversing the shoulders in foil

[RiseAndFall]

So the new FIE changes are supposed to allow reversing the shoulders from what I've gathered... Is there any proper way to really use that to your advantage when fencing though? I've seen the video of that guy using the shoulder reverse thing but is there really a true time and place to do that?

[The Mormegil]

in-fighting

[Schiavona]

But be very careful how you turn your shoulders. If you turn your back to your opponent you will get carded. Here's an example; fencing foil, same hand to same hand, you parry six, step in with your back foot-reversing your shoulders 180 degrees pull your hand back and nail your opponent. Left vs. right you can do this in the inside line. Find some one who was fencing in the '70's or early '80's to show you. Have fun

[keith]

the easy way to make sure you won't get carded - just make sure you are always looking at your opponent. Anything else goes, the action Schiavona describes can be very effective.

.... although some people do believe they have eyes on the back of their head when it comes to infighting.

[mrbiggs]

It's very useful with the new timings. I know that I'm getting screwed, trying to prime, and ending up much later than the one who turns and stabs. I gotta stop primeing...

[oiuyt]

Turning the back when reversing shoulders should rarely be a problem. If you turn that far you should be well aware that you're doing it wrong. Much more common is the problem of what to do with the off arm. Better get it up out of the way. Clamping it to your side is a good way to draw a card for covering. This is one of the hot-button topics that they are stressing to refs at the NACs this season.

-B :)

[mifencer]

MAKE SURE you lift the non-weapon arm so it doesn't cover target!

[Victor]

It's been said already, but I didn't want to feel left out: Keep facing the opponent, and keep your non-weapon arm out of the way.

No problemo.

[achilleus]

My favorite technique is an oldie and I'm so glad it's legal again...

A attacks.
B parries in 8/2
A leaning forward, ducks and tries to remise
B reverses shoulder, pulling the arm back, sliding off the blade, over the tip and bring the arm over the top to land a direct thrust the exposed back

It's awesome because the reversing shoulders removes all target, and puts you in a position to score at your leisure.