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Learn fencing — guides for new families

Everything a family needs to understand the sport: costs, levels, the road to the Olympics, and where it all came from.

How much does fencing cost?

A clear breakdown of fencing costs: classes, private lessons, gear and the competitive travel budget.

Fencing ratings explained (A, B, C, D, E)

What USA Fencing's A–E ratings mean, how you earn them, and how they map to skill levels.

How do you get to the Olympics in fencing?

The real competitive pathway from a first class to the Olympic team — step by step, honestly.

Famous fencers: the names to know

The most famous American and international fencers — Olympic champions past and present.

A short history of fencing

Where fencing came from, why there are three weapons, and its unbroken Olympic history.

How hard is fencing, really?

The physical and mental demands of fencing, and how much effort it takes at each level.

Foil fencing explained

What foil fencing is: target area, right-of-way, and why it's the classic beginner weapon.

Épée fencing explained

Épée fencing: the whole-body target, no right-of-way, and why it feels closest to a real duel.

Sabre fencing explained

Sabre fencing: cutting and thrusting, the above-the-waist target, and why it's the fastest weapon.

Fencing rules and scoring (how a bout works)

How fencing scoring works: the strip, electric touches, right-of-way, bout formats and tournament structure.

🤺 New to fencing? Start here

First class, ages, and foil vs épée vs sabre.

🎽 Beginner equipment guide

What gear you actually need, and buying order.

💸 Where to find discount gear

Bundles, used gear, club orders, member discounts.

📖 Fencing glossary

Every term you'll hear on the strip, explained.

☀️ Summer camps

The easiest way to try fencing — gear provided, beginners welcome.

🏆 Tournaments & events

How competitions work and where to find your first one.

♿ Adaptive & para-fencing

Wheelchair, blind and inclusive fencing, and who offers it.