How to Score a Touche in Foil Fencing

The following instructions will allow you to score a touché (point) in foil fencing for beginners . They are the fundamental steps and are formatted for people interested in learning the basics of how to fence. The steps will guide you through the basic steps of fencing, starting with putting on the gear to the proper stances and footwork before finally teaching you how to score a touché.


MATERIALS NEEDED

       •    foil
       •    vest
       •    mask
       •    glove
       •    chest/breast protector (required only for women)

OPTIONAL*

       •    breeches/knickers 
       •    plastron  
       •    high socks

* Optional materials are required for formal fencing.

DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT

       Foil -
       a sword used for elementary fencing.
       It has no sharp edges and a button on
       the end.

       Vest -
       in fencing, the vest has a groin strap
       that goes between the legs, and fabric
       is sewn around the neck to prevent a
       blade from slipping under the mask.

       Mask -
       a fencing mask consists of metal mesh
       and a protective bib.

       Glove -
       one glove, with a protective gauntlet, is
       used on the hand holding the weapon.

       Chest/breast protector -
       plastic chest guard to protect breast,
       sternum, and ribs. Mandatory for women.

       Breeches/knickers -
       trousers that end just below the knee
       and often have suspenders attached.

       Plastron -
       a one-armed underlining that allows
       for protection of the weapon arm.

       High Socks -
       knee-length or thigh high socks to
       cover knees and thighs .


CAUTION!

Minor injury may occur if the equipment isn't used as instructed.

Step 1

Put on your safety gear. This includes the vest, glove, and chest protector for women. 

NOTE

       •    The vest zips in the back, and its strap ties between
             your legs.
       •    The glove goes on your weapon hand. 
     
OPTIONAL

        •    Breeches/knickers   
        •    Plastron

Comments

[rhanson294]

All in all very well explained. I have been fencing for 3 years, The only thing that I would disagree with is failing to maintain en garde it is very rare to find a fencer that does this. It is much more common to find an absence of blade, this makes it harder for your opponent to find your blade to parry.

[Lorddrake]

Excellent job! Everything is clearly explained and well demonstrated. I look forward to seeing more from you.