Fencing is a classic art, part of our history since the Middle Ages. The image of sword fighting is prevalent throughout our media, from the swashbuckling escapades of Errol Flynn to the science-fiction adventures of Luke Skywalker. Yet, how many of you have ever seriously considered studying fencing?
I recently had a chance to ask Olympic Silver Medalist, Jason Rogers, what his thoughts were on fencing for fitness, as we train at the same academy, Avant Garde, in West Los Angeles.
Fencing is a classic art, part of our history since the Middle Ages. The image of sword fighting is prevalent throughout our media, from the swashbuckling escapades of Errol Flynn to the science-fiction adventures of Luke Skywalker. Yet, how many of you have ever seriously considered studying fencing?
I recently had a chance to ask Olympic Silver Medalist, Jason Rogers, what his thoughts were on fencing for fitness, as we train at the same academy, Avant Garde, in West Los Angeles.
“Fencing is an excellent sport to improve lower body strength and speed, as well as hand-eye coordination,” Rogers told me. “Fencing also develops agility and flexibility and is probably most similar to many of the martial arts in terms of the collection of skills it requires.” In fact, studying fencing has many benefits, for both the body and the mind.
- Coordination
- Agility
- Balance
- Flexibility
- Strength
- Cardiovascular Endurance
Mental benefits of fencing:
- Focus
- Hand-eye coordination
- Problem solving
While fencing is thought of by many as a youth sport or a sport of the elite, many fencing academies conduct group adult classes and have very reasonable training fees. So, don’t think it’s too late – why not get fit while living out the sword-fighting adventures of your childhood?
“In learning fencing you are introduced to a sport of elegance and sophistication with an incredibly rich history that goes back hundred, if not thousands of years, “ says Rogers. “Plus, it’s a great date and you get extra point with your friends for being unique.”
