A Beginner’s Guide to Starting the Sport
1. Find a Local Fencing Club
The first and most important step is finding a fencing club near you. Clubs are where most fencers train, learn, and grow in the sport. A quick online search or a visit to your national fencing federation's website (such as British Fencing if you’re in the UK) can help you locate registered clubs in your area.
Here is a list of some of our favorite fencing clubs in London:
Charteris Sport Fencing
Thorough beginner course
International coaching
Multiple locations
Affordable 1:1 lessons with membership
Before work/school training opportunities
Blackheath Fencing Club
Large community
Termly beginner courses
All 3 weapons
Camden Fencing Club
Offers women’s only fencing
Competitive veteran foil program
Large coaching staff
Most clubs offer trial sessions or open days—take advantage of these to get a feel for the environment.
2. Try a Beginner Course
Once you've found a club, sign up for a beginner fencing course. These introductory classes usually last a few weeks and are designed to teach the basics:
Footwork
Blade work
Rules and etiquette
Safety
Beginner courses are typically taught in a group setting and are perfect for newcomers of all ages. You don’t need to invest in your own gear yet—clubs usually provide all the essential kit during this phase.
3. Getting Your First Kit
As you continue, you'll eventually want your own fencing equipment. Basic beginner kits include:
Mask
Jacket
Glove
Weapon (foil, épée, or sabre, depending on your discipline)
Chest protector (especially for women)
Breeches and long socks
Your coach or club will guide you on what to buy first and can help you find a reliable supplier. They can also help you consider what equipment is worth investing in if you will eventually want to compete. Many clubs also offer second-hand gear or rentals to help you get started without a huge upfront cost.
4. Find a Coach and Start Lessons
While group classes are great for foundational skills, working with a coach one-on-one will dramatically improve your technique and strategy. Coaches can tailor lessons to your pace and goals—whether you're fencing recreationally or aiming for competition.
Ask your club for recommendations or talk to current members about their experiences with different coaches. A good coach will not only help you sharpen your skills but also keep you motivated and challenged.
5. Join Intermediate Classes and Keep Practicing
After your beginner course, you’ll likely move into intermediate group sessions. These classes focus more on tactical thinking, complex footwork, and sparring with others. It’s during this phase that you’ll start to feel like a real fencer.
Practice is key here. The more you fence, the more intuitive your movements become. Try to attend open sparring sessions regularly and fence with a variety of partners.
6. Get a British Fencing Membership (or Your Country’s Federation)
If you're in the UK and ready to compete, you’ll need a British Fencing (BF) membership. This grants you access to competitions, insurance, and official rankings. Other countries have their own governing bodies with similar systems (e.g., USA Fencing, Fédération Française d’Escrime).
BF offers different tiers of membership—choose the one that suits your level (starter, recreational, or competitive). Once you’re signed up, you can register for local, regional, or even national competitions.
While it’s a bigger investment, proper kit is essential for safety and performance. Your coach or club can help you find reliable suppliers and ensure you’re meeting all requirements.
Conclusion
Getting into fencing may seem complex at first, but it’s a step-by-step process that becomes more exciting the deeper you go. From your first parry to your first medal, fencing offers a dynamic journey full of challenge, growth, and fun. So grab a blade, find a club, and start your fencing adventure today!