New guy looking to get into the sport

[Orla]

Hey Im a soon to be college student, and Im new to fencing and Id like to know the basics of the sport. I have no experince and no equipment, so I'd also like some information on how much it would cost and if there are any particular things i should know before taking it up.

Thanks alot for your input

[RITFencing]

Hi, welcome to fnet.

I wouldn't worry about equipment yet; all you need to start out should be sweatpants, sneakers, a tshirt and a good attitude (the last of which easily being the most important. Fencing is fun, but it's also a lot of work.) The club at your college should provide the rest. When you do want to look at equipment, you can expect to pay 150 and up for a set of gear; it increases if you want electric equipment (which can be used in competition and in the club if they have scoring machines) and it depends a bit on the weapon.

I would also recommend getting in touch with the club (if there is one) of the college you plan on attending and talking to them.

Good luck!

[jdoiv]

To answer your question; it depends. Where will you be attending school? Some schools have clubs that will provide you with equipment. Usually there are semester or yearly dues, though most college clubs keep these fairly low (college is expensive enough). If this is the case for you, then you shouldn't have too much to worry about. Get some good socks and shoes and use the club equipment. If, however, the school you are going to attend doesn't have a club, there may be one in the area. This will likely cost more but is more likely to have professional coaching. You can check out the fencing clubs map link at the top of the page to find one close to you.

[Orla]

im planning to attend Indiana State University, at Terra Houte, IN

Id also like to know what type of exercises i should be expecting to prepare

[RITFencing]

Fencing uses a lot of aerobic lower body stuff. You can prepare for some of this by doing squats, calf raises, and other exercises for the lower body to build a good strength base. Running is also good to increase the endurance. I wouldn't worry too much about it, though; hopefully the club there is adept at dealing with beginners and won't blow out your quads on the first day.

[Orla]

i think i should be ok, i just got out of wrestling and i was arobatic in my style, so i think i should be ok though

[RITFencing]

Oh, yeah, you'll probably be in fine shape then. Just remember to keep a loose and relaxed upper body while you fence. Too many people tense up, especially as beginners.

[Orla]

hey thanks alot for all the info, ill be sure to remeber it

[RITFencing]

Our pleasure, man. There's loads of other useful info in the forum; the search tool is invaluable.

[Elbethil]

Welcome, Orla.