How can I prepare my self for a new fencing season ?

Question

I want to be in my best shape (or close to that) when starting this new fencing season. Does any one have fitness ex. that I can do to improve my endurance ? I already run and have a program but it's not enough. Thanks!

Answer 1

um, I suppose I would have to say just repetition of all the footwork and tactics, and conditioning...

When you run, you could add other exercises: like "high knees" or "karaoke" or "butt kicks"

Oh!  Lunging with a medicine ball might help...?

Answer 2

Stairs and hills are what do the most good for me for fencing.  It's a shorter but intense workout that doesn't take too much time away from fencing-related training, but still helps with the strength and endurance.  You can get so much done in half an hour.  Running down the stairs makes your feet move faster--it's the best exercise other than fencing for fencing in my opinion, running up stairs makes you stronger and running down makes you faster.  

If you have a mirror and think you can practice lunges without a coach (and without picking up bad habits), getting quicker is always good practice.  The thing I like to concentrate on most before a season is quick tight parries and working on good ways to combine one parry with another (I fence foil).  It is also good to work on footwork, but I find it hard to do any good work on footwork without a training partner or coach.