Along with a healthy attitude and adequate staying power, a fencer also requires a few other things when fencing. If you are outfitting yourself for competition it's a bit more complicated. If you're starting out you need a fencing jacket, mask, glove and fencing equipment. The fencing equipment you use to practice with includes a foil, saber or epee.
Many clubs will lend you fencing equipment when you are just starting and doing a beginner course. Once you complete the course, and are hooked to it, you will be encouraged to buy your own fencing gear. There are two different options for a beginner.
There are two ways to proceed: you can either obtain each piece individually until you get a complete set, or you can buy a foundation set, which will have everything you need already gathered together and assembled. Now that you have all of the required apparatus, what should come next? Before buying or using any fencing equipment, you really should learn what each piece is used for and what it is capable of doing.
The fencing jacket is to assist protect the fencer. It's important to choose a jacket that is well made and that will give adequate protection. The US does not have a set standard minimum constraint, though Europe requires a particular standard of protection. For international tournaments like Olympic fencing, the requirement is greater.
When you are beginning, the standard costume will be more than sufficient. Your primary decision will be whether you want it in cotton or synthetic fabric. Cotton will probably be less expensive but it is heavier and warmer. Synthetic fabric is lightweight but it will cost a bit more.
The mask is also for protection so be sure to select a mask that has sufficient interior padding, does not press on the top of the head or chin, and fits with ease. Even though you can purchase non-electric gloves it is almost always worth buying a glove with a cuff that can be used for electric fencing.
This cuff allows you to easily connect the body cord to an electric weapon from under the sleeve. These weapons come in all sizes, small to large, or in separate glove sizes. Picking up gloves that are individually sized will help you get a better fit, but they will also cost you more. The foil is made for thrusting, with a thin blade, and rounded (also known as foiled) tip. Foil blades are greatly flexible, able to bend upon contact with an opponent, thus preventing injuries.
C Harkins runs Fencing.Net - with resources on Olympic Fencing and also has a Fencing Equipment Store that offers a wide range of fencing blades, uniforms and other gear for beginning to advanced competitors.
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