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FAQ
The
Howardian Sword Club
Is fencing dangerous?
Not especially. All sport is dangerous, and there have been fewer serious injuries in fencing than in most. Of course, protective clothing, including a mask, a suitable jacket, and a glove must be worn during fencing matches and in practice. And you have to fence with a foil tipped with a metal or rubber button.
Is fencing expensive?
The charge for the class stands currently at £3 per session for adults. (You won't be charged anything just to come along and see what goes on though.) Equipment and clothing are provided. If you decide to buy your own kit, it is not cheap. But you do get a good discount buying through the club. The club supplier is Leon Paul, and you can check the prices of equipment by going to the website - click the link on the left.
Is fencing an art or a sport?
A bit of both. You improve by leaning more about techniques of attack and defence tested over time, but speed and fitness are significant too. You have to be fast, fit and knowledgeable to succeed at the top levels of fencing. At the Howardian club, there is room for many different ability levels, from complete beginners upwards. Everyone is welcome, and time is found to help everyone improve and enjoy their fencing. Fencing is fun at all levels.
What does a club session consist of?
This depends a bit on circumstances. Usually, we begin with general exercises to prepare the body for the stresses of fencing. Then there is usually dry training (no sword) in footwork and moves. We finish with practice fencing in groups, or competitive fencing, either in casual tournaments or using the electricalc equipment for matches. Sometimes there is an informal meeting afterwards.
How often does the club meet?
Once a week, on Tuesdays, during term times. The juniors' session begins at 5 pm. The adults' session begins at 7 pm and lasts two hours. Occasionally additional special sessions are organised.
Are there any other club events?
This depends on numbers. Sometimes we have weekend competitions. Occasionally we go out for a meal on an evening at the end of a term. This is a club: what we do depends on what the members want.
Do I have to know all the technical terms in the Glossary?
No. All sports have their own specialist language, and you get to know the terms you need incidentally in the practical process of learning how to fence.