Training

[kmak_577]

What training can you do on your own other than footwork? Also any recommendations on cross training or is it a waste of time ?
Thanks

kmak_577

[rory]

There are a number of other threads on both these subjects and the forum has an excellent search function.

However:
1) More footwork. Seriously. You can also put a target on the wall and hit it.

2) Of course it's not a waste of time. If you have the same skill level as another fencer, but you're fitter, you're going to win. Being fitter helps you be faster and stronger. Being stronger may improve your point control. Hopefully you can see the benefit of being faster without me telling you.

[D+F+P=Hadouken!]

Weight training, plyo, agility drills, cardio.

[parrythis]

Don't forget reading/studying. There are a number of good books available. Each one presents a slightly different perspective and you never know where you're going to find a new insight.

[ChrisBrasel]

i change the channels with my epee

[Larrison]

Footwork, footwork, footwork.

Get a dry weapon and glove and set up a target and do basic attacks. Get a full length mirror and do "mirror drills" until your form is instinctive.

Add in general conditioning training and plyometrics. Weights for strength, running (within reason) for endurance -- intervals work well, and plyometrics for explosive speed. There's enough stuff you can do you don't have to be bored and do the same thing every time. (Now.. if I can just find the time to do more of this.... )

[VELISARIOS]

You can run,swim as well.

[rcmatthews]

How about thinking? Sit there and thinking about what your opponent is likely to do in any situation. For example if your opponent takes your blade from the outside, where is he most likely to go? How do you counter it?

You can also think about types of people that you have fenced and what their strengths and weaknesses are. Think about what is wrong with your fencing; specifically why are you missing out on touches? Be it footwork, tactical strategy, bladework, whatever.

This occupies a large majority of the time I spend in my classes. It's a good time killer. Fencing isn't called physical chess for nothing.

[achilleus]

i change the channels with my epee

Wow, you have a remote built into your epee?

[Sciurus-Rex]

Although it may seem tedious and silly, focus on the simplest actions at a slow, slow speed for as long as you can. For example, take a good en guarde position, pick a spot on the wall, and in the most deliberate careful way possible extend your weapon to target. As you do so, be very conscious of every minor transition -- point lowering, blade angle, muscle tension, elbow lift, etc. And after the touch, withdraw in the same manner.

The idea is to imprint on your brain the precise action you want to occur in EXACTLY the manner your muscles should move. Don't fret about quickness; that will come later as a reflex. Studies show that the actions we learn most thoroughly at slow speed are also triggered in a hurry under stress (like in a bout). Conversely, if you learn something incorrectly in practice as you zip through an exercise, you'll incorporate it incorrectly in competition.

So grab your favorite music and slip into zen fencing practice. If you do it right, even a few repititions can take several minutes. That'll keep ya busy.

[RebelFencer]

Besides working out...I work on my tempo changes when doing random tasks. I'm lame.

[Fencergrl]

Cross-training usually is be beneficial in some way. My coach is a National team boxer as well as an epeeist I think both sports made her better at the other.

My niece was one of the worst soccer/football players on her team. Then she took up Karate; she’s now on an all-star team.

Every sport offers something different, works different muscles, reflexes and has a different mindset. Even fencing different weapons offers a different perspective to your game.