What is Fencing?
Modern fencing is defined as follows: The art or
sport of attack and defense with the foil, epée, or saber. To put
it more simply, it is swordplay using blunted weapons and protective gear.
Fencing has been an Olympic sport since 1896, and is one of only four sports
that have been featured in every modern Olympics.
A Brief History
The earliest record of fencing comes from roughly
1200 B.C. - Ancient Egyptian temple carvings depict two warriors wearing
masks and using blunted swords to battle each-other in front of an audience.
Modern fencing, however, has its roots in sword technology developments
around 1500 A.D., when heavier blades used to destroy armor on the battlefield
became obsolete and lighter swords more suited to gentlemen and dueling
became popular. Schools of dueling and fencing were created throughout
Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries, teaching the upper-classes how to
defend themselves and "their honor." Safer and safer methods
of instruction were developed to protect the lives of the nobles attempting
to learn swordsmanship, with the foil being developed in the middle of
the 17th century and masks being prominently worn during the 18th.
Club Information
Fencing Club is a registered student organization
at the University of Cincinnati Clermont. It is open to all students, faculty,
and staff from any of UCs campuses. While practices are held in Batavia
on the Clermont College campus, previous members have come from all of
the major UC campuses including Raymond Walters and Clifton.
Fencing Club is a coed sport, with both men and women practicing together.
Dexterity, agility, and quickness are the primary traits of fencing - factors
that tend to keep both genders on equal ground. In most national (and international)
competitions, men and women fence in separate divisions. In local competitions,
the two groups are often combined.
Purpose
The primary purpose of Fencing Club is to educate
others about and promote the sport of fencing. The club does this in three
ways: 1) by providing basic training and fencing instruction in foil (a
type of fencing sword); 2) by providing information to fencers; 3) by bringing
together fellow fencing enthusiasts.
(No) Experience Required
Fencing Club is a FUN Club - no previous experience
is necessary. You do not need to be extremely fit to practice with us,
either - just willing to try (and not have any serious heath problems.
You have gotten a physical in the last year, right? :) . You won't ever
be asked to run five miles or do push-ups - plus, you can stop whenever
you feel tired. We are here to have an enjoyable experience!
Costs and Dues
At this time, Fencing Club does not charge any dues.
This may change in the future. Those fencing for more than three weeks
are REQUIRED to purchase a fencing glove. Gloves cost between $10.00 (cheap
starter gloves) to $55.00 (top of the line). We recommend a washable three-weapon
glove for about $25.00.
In terms of equipment, Fencing Club does provide some items for general
club use. This equipment is provided "as-is" and should be checked
before being used for any damage and to make sure it is in proper working
order. Experienced club fencers are strongly encouraged to purchase their
own equipment to limit the wear on club items and to insure that they have
working equipment for practices.
For those intending to go to fencing competitions, USFA membership is often
required. You can find out more about the United States Fencing Association
at http://www.usfencing.org/.
How to Get Involved
First, you need to be a University of Cincinnati
student, faculty member, staffer, or (at this time) alumnus in order to
join the club. If you are not associated with UC, please see our links
section for other local clubs to get involved with.
Second, you need to consult a doctor to make sure you are healthy enough
to participate. Fencing Club involves aerobic exercise and is a contact
sport, meaning there is some risk of injury when participating. Like any
other sport, you should receive a physical prior to participating.
Finally, you need to show up. :) A schedule of
practices can be found in the "Schedule" section of this
homepage. Those with no experience should look for "General"
practices; those with some fencing knowledge can show up to other sessions
as their experience allows. Before being allowed to participate, you will
be required to sign a liability waiver.
Note: in order to actually participate in a fencing "match" (duel)
rather than just practice, new fencers must complete the basic instructional
course. This usually takes two practice sessions to complete.
What to Wear and Bring
Fencing is an active sport, so appropriate "workout
gear" such as a t-shirt and other clothing participants can easily
move in is important. A t-shirt, long pants, and gym shoes are recommended.
For extra padding, some fencers wear sweatshirts during matches. Shorts
are not recommended, but are sometimes worn (at the participant's own risk).
Just like other aerobic exercise, it is VERY IMPORTANT
for participants to remain hydrated so as to avoid heat exhaustion and
dehydration. PLEASE BRING A BOTTLE OF WATER TO PRACTICE.
If you forget to bring your water, take a break during practice and get
a drink of water from the fountains. :)
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