Fencing in London - all you need to know before you pick up the foil.

At a glance:

• A great way to get in both mental and physical shape
• Improves speed, flexibility and dexterity
• A unique sport for competition seekers
• Increases focus and concentration

The Lowdown

Fencing in London involves a sport that’s been practiced since the 16th century so, obviously, fencing must be pretty great to make it to the 21st, right? If you know anything at all about fencing, you know it’s somewhat about wearing an awesome white suit with a mask and jabbing at an opponent with a non-death-blow-delivering sword (or “foil” in the official lingo). Essentially, the objective during fencing classes in London is to deliver hits to specific places on your opponent’s torso in order to earn points while protecting yourself at the same time. And while this is a great way to let out some tension in a controlled setting - it also has plenty of other health benefits. Fencing involves a lot of fancy footwork so it’s a great way to get in some much needed cardio. Besides the physical benefits, it also requires a good bit of concentration, quick thinking and strategy so it exercises your mind as well.

The Crowd

Want to work both your body and mind simultaneously while participating in a challenging sport and enjoying a different experience? Fencing in London is great for those looking to improve their overall physical health, stimulate their critical and strategic thinking skills and try something new. Think of fencing as running on a treadmill while playing a game of chess - except possible and enjoyable! Are you a natural competitor just looking for a new sport to dominate? Fencing classes in London are a social activity that encourage integrity and sportsmanship (but it is really fun to win, right?).

The Cost

Fencing requires quite a bit of special gear, but luckily, all of that will be provided for you at your TasterLab taster session. However, if you’re looking to start fencing in London long term - you’ll need, at the very least, a lame (protective jacket that covers your target area) which costs around £40, a mask (also around £40) and a foil, epee or sabre which you can get for roughly £30.

And Finally…

Check out this interview with Great Britain Olympic fencing team member Claire Bennett to learn a little more about what comes with fencing in London.