Classical Fencing does not favour any particular body type, height, age, or gender. Instead, it is one's thorough understanding of the fencing science and ability to efficiently apply it which distinguishes the effective fencer from the ineffective one. As such, the primary focus of our classes is on developing a proper scientific foundation and not solely physical conditioning.
While we offer multiple classes for students of varying experience levels, it is our general requirement that all new students go through the Beginners Class. Those with prior experience in Classical Fencing may arrange for a private assessment to determine proper placement in our curriculum. All classes with the exception of those for Group 3 will exclusively employ the French Foil (click for video) as it is the traditional training instrument of the Classical French School. |
Beginners Class - Introduction to the Classical French School I
Offered throughout the year, this weekly course (spanning four classes) is required for all new students. Participants in this class will learn how to handle the French Foil, perform the formal salute, practice the Valdin exercise, form the classical French guard in seven-counts, learn the footwork for the advance and step back, as well as perform the extension in sixte with the foil. Students will be introduced to the French Foil (click for video) and to the proper etiquette for conducting oneself within the Salle d'Armes (Fencing Hall). Registration: Please inquire about either the Children (ages 8-14) or Adults (14+) courses by leaving a message on our Contacts page. Cost: $80 for 3 classes Equipment: Sweatpants, long-sleeve shirt, indoor cross-training or court shoes (Please do not wear outdoor street shoes inside the Salle d'Armes) |
Novice Class - Introduction to the Classical French School II
Also offered throughout the year is our Novice Class which forms the second phase of training for those aspiring to become long-term students. In this course, we look at how to perform the lunge, subterfuge, passe-avant, & passe-arrière in footwork, how to find one's extension & lunge distance, as well as refine the guard and all relevant techniques in preparation for working with a classmate. The Novice Class meets up to 3 times a week. It is recommended that students take the Novice Class immediately after the Beginners Class in order to ensure a smooth progression in learning. Prerequisite: Completion of Beginners Class and approval of the teacher Registration: Please fill out the form on the Contact page Cost: $90 per month Equipment: Same as Beginners Class (Please do not wear outdoor street shoes in the Salle d'Armes) |
Group 1 - Offensive & Defensive Theory & Practice with the French Foil I
Group 1 is the entry level class for students who have decided to pursue the study of Classical Fencing in greater depth. We begin by refining the foundation developed in previous courses before proceeding to introduce new actions such as the coup d'arrêt, creep forward, creep backward, redoublement, reprise, remise, and gaining step. Furthermore, students will learn the standard hand positions and how they relate to the lines of defense. All of this culminates in their ability to perform the Tirer-les-feintes exercises which is the key to understanding the universal theory of defense. Due to the increased amount of work done with partners, proper Fencing equipment is required and is available for rental. Prerequisite: Completion of Novice Class and approval of the teacher Registration: Please fill out the form on the Contact page Cost: $90 per month Equipment: Please refer to our Equipment page |
Group 2 - Offensive & Defensive Theory & Practice with the French Foil II
The objective of this course is to prepare students for the assault. As such, fencers will eventually explore the majority of the concepts in Classical French Foil with an emphasis on how to apply them on a technical level. These concepts include: the coupé, parry-riposte, counter-riposte, prise de fer, and attaque au fer. The ideas of lateral, diagonal, angular, and circular movement may also be introduced. As in Group 1, proper Fencing equipment is required and is available for rental. Prerequisite: Approval of the teacher following participation in Group 1 Registration: Please fill out the form on the Contact page Cost: $90 per month Equipment: Please refer to our Equipment page |
Group 3 - Fencing Science in other Weapons
With a functional foundation in Classical French Foil, Group 3 continues to refine our students' practice of Foil fencing as well as introduce the study of additional weapons. Foil and poignard, spear, northern Italian dueling sabre, and poignard are among the arms that have been studied in Group 3, as different weapons are rotated in periodically. Every weapon has its own unique characteristics. By training with this variety, concepts that are rarely or not employed in Foil such as movement off of the line of direction, ambidexterity, and cutting can be explored allowing our students' to glimpse the vast breadth and depth of the science of defense. Prerequisite: Approval of the Teacher following participation in Group 2 Registration: Please fill out the form on the Contact page Cost: $90 per month plus $45 supplemental fee for each additional weapon studied Equipment: Please refer to our Equipment page |
Private Lessons
For individuals who are unable to attend classes but would still like to learn Classical Fencing or for fencers currently registered in our classes who would like to further refine their skills, private lessons may be arranged. Please leave any inquiries you may have via the form on the Contact page. |
Parents Class
While younger fencers experience many benefits from practicing Classical Fencing, our Parents Class affords an unique opportunity for adults. The road to mastering any art is full of challenges which can be particularly frustrating for children. When parents take part in learning with their child, they demonstrate by example not only the qualities of character that are essential to learning Fencing but also of those that are necessary to thrive in life. It is a chance to teach with action rather than words; and, in our opinion, more enjoyable than waiting for your child to complete his class. If you would like to learn more about the Parents Class, please fill out the form on the Contact page. |