Exercises to get into shape for fencing

[Ask11]

Hi I am new to fencing. I wanted to know what exercises would help strengthen your body for fencing. I have done mostly strength training along with eliptical to keep me in shape, but with fencning I have noticed that certain muscles get used a lot and boy do my feet hurt after that weird angle. I feel the inside part of my feet get used a lot more.

So question from people who have been fencing for a long time, what is your exercise routine? What helps?

Another question is my coach keeps on saying I have too long legs..I have been saying I am sorry..why would that be a problem in fencing? I am only 5' 8 though!

[Fechter1]

First things first:
Hurting muscles (i.e. muscle fatigue, soreness) = OK
Hurting joints != OK

For me, the one thing that took my game to the next level was starting TaeKwonDo training. Heavy on the legs, deeps stances, focus on balance.

Never did much weight training beyond simple extension, flexion, squats. And the occasional Stadium run :-)

[Inquartata]

Fencing.

I lift weights and ride a stationary bicycle and do some exercises like sit-ups and planks. But these are just for general fitness, not fencing. The best exercise for any activity is that activity.

[wdragon007]

Got to agree with Inq - the best exercise for fencing is fencing.

You can practice footwork drills anywhere (my co-workers are quite used to seeing me advancing and retreating from cube to cube), lunging (as long as you get the "yeah, you've got it" sign-off from your coach) and the hand movements required for bladework pretty easily.

As for the muscle ache, it'll get better as you do it more; fencing uses some unique muscle combinations.