Fencing

sword sport · super fast · Olympic

Three sword types. Fencers compete in three different disciplines: foil (a light, flexible sword), épée (a heavier sword), and sabre (a sword you can use for slashing). Each has totally different rules about where you can score points.

Italian and French origins. Modern fencing came from real sword fighting in Europe hundreds of years ago. The Italians invented a new style, and then the French improved it even more.

Speed and precision matter. To win in fencing, you have to touch your opponent with the tip or blade of your sword faster and smarter than they touch you. It's like a super-fast chess match with swords!

Popular sport worldwide. Fencing became super popular near the end of the 1800s and is still a major Olympic sport today. Professional fencers usually pick one discipline and master it completely.