Engarde! A Fencing Lesson From A Local Pro

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You have been challenged to a duel and your pistol is in the shop, so what do you do? You sword fight, of course! Well, sort of. Modern fencing is the evolved art and sport of non-fatal sword fighting and swordsmanship. Most of us conjure images of Robin Hood (or John Cleese with a mere flesh wound) when we think of fencing, but fencing isn't about the of clashing swords so much as it is a sport that trains you to be agile and graceful while stabbing at another person. That actually sounds more violent than it really is.

If you have an impending duel, or if you're looking for a different kind of work out, then you are one lucky duck. St. Louis boasts a number of nationally ranked fencers, and our city's first dedicated fencing facility, Olympia Fencing Academy, is opening in just a couple of weeks. Olympia was established in 2006 and 75% of their current team is nationally ranked. The Academy's next four week introductory course starts on November 17th. You will learn the basics of techniques, and how to use the three different types of swords used in fencing matches (the foil, epee, and sabre). The typical match is won after a fencer is awarded five points, and depending on the weapon of choice you win points by "jabbing" or "cutting" your opponent.

Besides being a fun and unique hobby, fencing is a workout that is good for cardiovascular health, endurance, and stress relief, and the basics of fencing are easy to learn. We got a sneak peek at Olympia's new building, and we got a quick introductory lesson from the Olympia's International Olympic Fencing Coach, Hossam Hassan. To see Margo and I showing off our newly acquired fencing acumen, click on the Featured Video tab.

This weekend Olympia Fencing Academy hosts the North American Cup Tournament at The America's Center downtown, November 7 through 10. Matches begin at 9am and end around 6pm each day. The tournament is free to watch so if your interest is peeked, you can stop by and get a look at the real competitors - but I bet Margo or I could take them with one sabre behind our back.

Olympia Fencing Academy will be opening on November 17th at 8664 Olive Blvd., Suite B, St. Louis MO 63132. The four week introductory course fee is $65 - $75 for the course.

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