When you say "fencing", some people think of playing a game that looks like ballet with toy swords while others think of mortal combat from hundreds of years ago where the only rule was to kill or be killed. In order to find out what the true sport of modern fencing is all about, Bilkent News took a look at the "beginner's fencing classes" at Main Campus Sports Center.
Historically, fencing may have evolved from early Roman wars thousands of years ago using swords and spears. The battle weapons slowly changed from heavy swords and shields to lighter ones for more agility and maneuverability. In battle, the only objective was to kill the enemy, but using swords and rapiers later became popular for settling arguments between gentlemen by duels. For duels, since honor was involved, a set of rules was developed. The objective was often not to kill or even to injure, but to demonstrate superior skill and outwit your opponent. These rules of duelling then formed the basis for modern fencing.
The weapons that are used in modern sports fencing are lightweight and can be moved with lightning speed. They look dangerous! Although the edges and ends are not sharp, people wear protective masks and padding to ensure that there are no injuries. Many of the important aspects of sport fencing are mental. Confidence, focus, intensity and momentum are essential components. Much of the first classes are spent learning balance so that the students will eventually be able to thrust and parry with style and confidence. Everyone is tired at the end of the class as holding the proper positions takes some energy.
About 30 people in the class learned that proper fencing requires a lot of coordination. While practicing the beginners moves, the new students also watched some skilled fencers move back and forth like ballet dancers as they looked for opportunities to psychologically and physically win over their opponents.
The fencing coach, Halim Þener, teaches this stress relieving activity and he is also an internationally certified referee.
Come join this interesting sports activity. One suggestion though: choose your fencing partner carefully!
