Modern Olympic fencing is a sport for everyone, young and old! Fencing develops not only physical fitness, but also problem solving skills and quick-thinking. If you are new to fencing, feel free to read through our list of fencing FAQs below, along with a brief description of each of the three disciplines of fencing: foil, epee, and saber. Remember, fencing is an exciting, safe and rewarding sport for all ages!



The foil originated as a training weapon in the 18th century, and its rules are meant to reward correct behavior during bouts. In foil, points are scored when one fencer touches his/her opponent on the torso (including the back) with the tip of the blade. A touch is scored when a fencer has established right of way i.e., the right to attack. Put simply, if you are being attacked, you must defend yourself, and if you are attacking, your goal is to score.

Epee fencing is based on actual dueling. For epee, the whole body is a target. Points are awarded to the fencer who touches his/her opponent first. When both fencers touch at the same time, both are awarded a point; this is called a double touch. Therefore, the goal of an epee fencer is to touch without being touched. Like foil, epees only score by thrusting with the point of the weapon.

Saber differs from the other weapons in that it is primarily a cutting weapon; points are scored with the side of the blade, not just the tip. Originally a cavalry weapon, saber has been adapted to modern fencing quite successfully. Of all the weapons, saber is the fastest-paced. Like foil, right of way is used to determine touches. The target is the torso from the waist up and also includes the arms and the head.