Returning to the Sport and f.net

[nylebuss]

I used to fence while I was in high school, on the schools team, but since then I've moved on to college and working. Which really does suck, since it takes all my time in classes or working, and all my money to unfortunately. But I just got fired from my previous job, and found a new job(plus a promotion that day) but it freed me up to actually have a little time to fence. Which is especially nice since a few months ago a fencing club opened up in my town. It's run by the same people who run my colleges fencing club that always has practices when I'm working. Now I'm free to go to this club though. And I was wondering which would be better to go to this clubs open fencing and start picking up the sport again, now that I haven't fenced in over a year. Or should I focus more on just getting back into shape, a shape that isn't round at least, before I go and start fencing again?

Well anyways Hey, and I'm glad to at least be considering coming back to fencing in the near future.

[Stormbringer]

Congratulations on being able to come back into the sport!

While I'm no professonal trainer/coach, I would guess that it can't hurt (assuming proper warming-up is done) to go for a few rounds, just to shake off some of the proverbial rust... and, just to see how much of said proverbial rust there might be (which, from my limited experience, always seems like more than there actually is).

Which weapon(s) do you prefer?

[andy966]

I think I have seen some pretty good fencers who are not that small. I am sure that physical fitness will definitely help, but I don't think being a little overweight will keep you from being good at the sport. Besides I think you will ending up losing some pounds from the drills.

[nylebuss]

@Stormbringer
I've had the most experience at Foil, it's all my coach would teach for my first three seasons, but then I had a season of doing Epee as well. I've definitely had more practice and success at Foil, since I injured my hand and was unable to compete at all in Epee at least.

@andy966
Yea I've had some success while being on the larger size, I'm not a small guy in the first place, but since that success I'd say I've probably gained at least 30 if not 40 pounds. Such success being an E rating several times, so take it as you will.

[Got_Fenced_In]

Hey, welcome back to the sport.


I'd say just hit the club! (Of course, I'm not an expert.) Get used to a weapon in your hand and footwork again. After a few weeks, THEN hit the gym. You can do both; it'll help all around.

[the maple epee]

Hiiyyy

[needle]

The best way to physically train for fencing is ... drum roll ... by fencing. It's the only activity that exercises exactly the same muscles as fencing, in exactly the same way.

That said, core strength and endurance training can be good for your health, and can help prevent injuries, so it's your friend too, but don't think that you have to get into "better shape" to start fencing. Unless you hope to get into that old HS fencing jacket that doesn't fit anymore

[nylebuss]

Haha well that would definitely shave a few dollars from my need to update my equipment.