how long...

[glowstix]

how long should a beginner stick with the french grip for foil?? i know there are pros and cons for every grip. i've been in the sport for about 8 months now and i'm not seeing the supposed benefits the french grip gives to beginners. i still do maneuvers with my wrists instead of the "manipulators" and i seem to have less point control with it. the visconti grip i tried from someone else in the club once felt good. i'm tempted to change. should i??

[edew]

Go for it! Using french for "learning" reasons is as smart as learning command-line DOS to learn how to use most modern-day computers.

The modern game for foil doesn't work well with a french grip. Why stick with it?

[broncofencer]

I have to agree with edew on this when I started I switched almost right away. Check with your coach first to get his input.

Just as a tip:
try out several different grips before making a definite switch otherwise you end up like me and have 3-4 of every grip made because you change every year or so.

[pkt]

I disagree with Eric and Bronc.

Simple reasoning:
French grip strengthens your fingers to allow you to do things 'properly' i,e, with the fingers only rather than with the wrist.

You can always switch from French to pistol, but rarely the other way around.

Besides, if you're tired of foil, you can easily switch to sabre after using French...


PK

[zeidolon]

Originally posted by glowstix
i've been in the sport for about 8 months now and i'm not seeing the supposed benefits the french grip gives to beginners. i still do maneuvers with my wrists instead of the "manipulators" and i seem to have less point control with it.

Uh, there's your problem. "i still do maneuvers with my wrists" Its not the french grip that is giving you problems, it is your wrists. I'd suggest sticking with french until you develop some level of point control. Otherwise, you are going to pistol with some bad habits formed.

Personally, I am sticking with french. I like the freedom and maneuverability it offers in some situations : )

Robert