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Fencing

The Sport

Two fencers competing in an épée bout
Combat Sport · Olympic Discipline

Fencing is a combat sport in which participants use a sword to strike and defend themselves according to predetermined moves and rules. Since the beginning of the modern Olympic Games in 1896, fencing has been one of only four sports to be included in every edition. Today's fencing is a modern combative sport. It's a challenge both physically and tactically — a sport that's extremely fast, requiring both swiftness and a high degree of fitness.

Two competitors fight with swords, or weapons, called the épée, foil, and sabre on a six-feet by forty-feet aluminum piste. Points are made through contact or touch with an opponent, which is recorded electronically. The target area of contact differs for each weapon.

The Three Weapons

Épée fencing stance
épée

The heaviest of the three weapons. The entire body is a valid target, and simultaneous hits are both awarded a point.

Foil fencing stance
foil

A light thrusting weapon. Valid target is limited to the torso, and right-of-way rules decide who scores on a simultaneous action.

Sabre fencing stance
sabre

A cutting and thrusting weapon. Valid target extends from the waist up, including the head and arms, and is also governed by right-of-way.

Scoring & Timing

The main object of a fencing bout — what an individual “game” is called — is to effectively score five points in preliminary pool play, or fifteen points in direct elimination play, on your opponent before he or she scores that number on you. Each time a fencer scores a touch, he or she receives a point. Preliminary pool matches consist of three minutes, while direct elimination matches consist of three three-minute periods.

Individual & Team Play

Fencing is contested in both individual and team formats. A team competition comprises four fencers, with results combined across bouts to determine the winning side.