Parry, Riposte, Repeat (Sports)

Illustrative only
Fencing is 
on strips and electric
in todays world.

Fencing is a combat-style sport with roots in dueling and military training—basically what people used to do before they had email to argue with each other. Saber, in particular, is geared toward the functional use of swords by cavalry and foot soldiers. I’ve been fencing saber for a number of years now. I’m not amazing at it, but I keep showing up, and every once in a while I surprise myself by winning a few bouts.

There are some great physical benefits to sports like fencing, including stronger legs, faster reaction time, and improved hand–eye coordination. If you’ve never tried it, you’ll quickly learn one important thing: it is fast. Like, “blink and you’re already hit” fast. Easily one of the fastest sports I’ve ever experienced.

Some things I’m currently working on (also known as my fencing to-do list):

1. Refereeing and rules comprehension – better understanding parries, ripostes, and other maneuvers, and learning to listen for the click of the blade instead of guessing.

2. Stronger legs – because legs win bouts, not wishful thinking.

3. Stronger wrists – turns out flailing isn’t a strategy.

4. Improved forearm strength – so the sword does what I tell it to do.

5. Lunges – longer, faster, and less embarrassing.

6. Fakes and feints – making the other person think I know exactly what I’m doing.

I’m also a licensed fitness trainer, so if you need a little help reaching your fitness goals—or just want to move better than your opponent—feel free to send me a message.