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Fencing Equipment - Get The Right Protection

By Expert Author: Craig Harkins | Article Abstract
Word Count: 417 words | Views: 1018 view(s)
A successful fencer must possess a rather large variety of different items such as, an outstanding positive attitude and a whole lot of extreme patience. For the beginner, they will need a fencing mask, jacket, glove, and a practice weapon or fencing equipment. Fencing equipment may include an epee, saber, or a foil.

Many clubs will help beginners by lending them fencing equipment when they are just starting out. Once you complete a beginner course, you will be hooked, and will want to get your own fencing gear. There are a couple of different options for beginners.

The first option is to buy the equipment piece-wise, until you have a full set. The other option is to purchase a starter kit, these kits contain all the basic elements of fencing requirements already assemble and sold as a unit. You have a list of required items, but what do you do with it? Prior to purchasing or using your own equipment it is important to have a solid basic understanding of both capability and purpose of each item.

The fencing jacket is to assist protect the fencer. It's important to choose a jacket that is well made and that will give adequate protection. The US does not have a set standard minimum constraint, though Europe requires a particular standard of protection. For international tournaments like Olympic fencing, the requirement is greater.

When you are just beginning the basic equipment will more than suffice. The main choices you will be making in this regard are whether to go with cotton or synthetic materials. Cotton is heavier and hotter in use, but is also cheaper. The synthetic materials are of a lighter weight, but they are more expensive.

The mask is used for safety so make sure you choose a mask that is equipped with enough padding, fits well and doesn't bear down on the top of your head or your chin. Although you can buy non-electric gloves, it really is worthwhile to get a glove equipped with a cuff that you can wear for electric fencing.

To easily attach the body cord to an electric weapon, use a cuff like this one. They come in all standard sizes and can also be obtained as gloves. This will give you an enhanced fit, but the cost will be higher. In order to thrust, the foil is used. It has an extremely slender blade and a round or foiled edge. When striking your adversary, the blade of the foil bows so that you do not hurt anyone.
Craig Harkins

About the Author/Author Bio

C Harkins runs Fencing.Net - with resources on Olympic Fencing and also has a Fencing Equipment Store that offers a wide range of fencing blades, uniforms and other gear for beginning to advanced competitors.

Article Source: http://www.articlesphere.com/Article/Fencing-Equipment---Get-The-Right-Protection/150459

Article Submitted: 2008-06-27 | This Article has been viewed 1018 times.

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