Fencing Rules

Based on the ancient art of swordfighting, fencing awards points in a competition between two fighters. The object of any match is to score a direct attack on an opponent's opening, essentially simulating a kill. The rules of fencing are complex, and the uniforms and equipment are as detailed as the conduct of a match.

  1. Equipment

    • A foil and epee--the instrument a fencer uses--is 43 inches long. The blade, or extension of the instrument, can be no longer than 35 inches. In addition to the epee, each participant must wear a white outfit, including a mesh mask, gloves and plastron--a protective vest that is usually wired to the scoring system to measure successful attacks.

    The Match

    • A referee brings the fencers to the center of the mat at their on-guard lines and says, "En garde." The fencers prepare to attack at this command. When the referee says, "fence" or "allez" (pronounced "ahl-ay"), the fencers begin their match. Only when the referee says "halt" is the match over. The referee can call "halt" when a fencer scores a hit, drops an epee or foil, steps out of bounds or commits a foul.

    Match Length

    • A traditional fencing match is no longer than 11 minutes, which is divided into three, 3-minute periods with a 1-minute break between each period. A fencer achieves a win when he has the most touches after the three periods are completed. A competitor can also achieve a win if she records 15 touches prior to the end of the match.

    Fouls

    • A referee can call a foul in three instances: if a fencer dodges a touch by leaving the competition mat; if a fencer ignores the warning or command of the referee; or the competitor uses his free hand to attack or defend against his competitor.

    Scoring

    • To score a hit, a fencer must make direct contact with the tip of her foil to her competitor's upper torso--anywhere between the shoulder line and groin area.