Fencing, a sword game that is growing in all over the world
Fencing is an ancient game that is being played for a number of years. It is the only combat sport that is being featured at each modern Olympic Games. Its three major types of competition are the Epee, Foil, and Sabre which are defined by the weapon used
in it.
Fencing game has been found in the history with different names. If we go back to 1200 B.C.E, a carving game was found with protective weapons. The Greek and Roman civilizations have been playing with swords for centuries. The 15th century was
the commencement of this interesting game. The first fencer was introduced by the Spain in 1971. The further development in this game was made in 17th century when sword was replaced by gun-powder and firearms as basic weapon. For the first time
France introduced Foil as light weapon for the purpose of training.
The new rules of defending and attacking were introduced in the game. La Boessiere introduced “mask”, another safety precaution to the sport of fencing. America introduced the very first school for Fencing in 1874. The growth continued in the Fencing with
the passage of time. Due to its simple rules and regulation, Fencing was first introduced in the modern Olympic Games in 1924. In the early times of the 20th century FIE was made in France named Fédération Internationale d'Escrime. Now Fencing is
presented in more speedy ways due to introduction of electronic scoring. This gave fencing game an even more strategic element.
Foil, Epee and Sabre are the weapons that are used in this sword fighting game. Foil is a light and flexible weapon which was developed in mid 17th century. It was used as training weapon for the small sword. The target area for scoring is restricted
to torso. Weapon should be hit in such a manner as would cause a punctured wound. Hits can be scored by only hitting the targeted area. If weapon us hit at off-target area, the bout stop but no point is scored.
When it was felt that conventions of foil are too restrictive, Epee was invented in 2nd half of 19th century by a group of French students. It is a sporting weapon which we know today. Epee is exact copy of small sword, but without
a needle-sharp point. If a fencer wants to score a valid hit, the fencer must hit the weapon on opponent’s targeted area. However the targeted area consists of entire body.
Sabre was introduced on the start of the 20th century. It is a cutting weapon and points can be scored with the edge and surface of the blade. The target area for pointing the scores is above of the waist except hands and back of the head.
A well-fitted mask with a strap across the back and attached bib, a properly fitted jacket with fasteners that completely sealed, Fencing Gloves, Fencing knickers also called breeches, Breast
Protectors (for women) and Plastrons are used, while fencing. Beginners used blade that bends easily.
Every game has some techniques for playing. In fencing, two competitors try to hit their weapons on the target areas. They keep themselves in a playing zone that is called ‘Piste’. Both fencers start from the lines called On-Guard lines. The length of the
On-Guard lines is set two meters from central line. Both fencers salute each other before the competition starts.
Each bout consists of three minute period, bout ends before the time limit if one fencer scores 15 points. Bout is begun by the fencers standing on the guard line and fencers return to the guard line if one of them hit the score. The fencer should hit the
valid targeted area if he wants to score the point. If there is electric scoring apparatus, the hit is scored automatically.
If any athlete is injured, the fencer is given 10 minutes to recover, if not then the fencer must withdraw from the game. If a fencer puts his both feet behind the area of piste, the opponent is awarded a point. Three fencers on each side compete in team
fencing, each of the three players fence against all of three fencers from opposite side. Each fencer has to point five touches to win.
Fencing has a huge impact in the world and will spread all over the world in upcoming period.
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