Inclusive and friendly

Fencing is often referred to as a “niche sport,” because it is popular among a relatively small, but passionate community. This gives it some unique advantages. Most people in the community are eager for fencing to grow and to share their love for the sport, so are very welcoming of newcomers. Also, because of the size of the community, it’s not uncommon to start recognizing many familiar faces after attending only a few competitions. As a result, most fencers and coaches are quite happy to help each other out, whether it be sharing tips or lending equipment.

Topline: The fencing community is very friendly and welcoming, towards newcomers and veterans of the sport alike.

Not a pure combat sport

While fencing shares many qualities with martial arts, the sport is not about who can hit the hardest or who can take a punch. Strategy in fencing is more important than strength. It’s also one of the safest sports in the world. The equipment is set to strict safety regulations. Masks must pass ‘punch’ tests to ensure they will protect athletes from injuries, and at the international level, the jackets have kevlar woven into them. Fewer injuries occur in fencing than in table tennis or badminton, according to one study. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t get bruised every once in awhile, so be aware that while you won’t get injured very often, you might get poked a few times.

Topline: Despite hitting each other with swords, fencing has one of the lowest injury rates among Olympic Sports.

Individual sport

This one is obvious but it’s worth saying. There are never more than two fencers on the strip, so success is always about one fencer beating another. And while you also represent your coach, club and your country, it’s still only you that takes home the medal.

Even during team events, failure and success rest entirely on the shoulders of the sole athlete who is fencing (the format for fencing team events is best described as a relay race, sort of like in swimming).

If you’re individually minded, this might work for you. It is one of fencing’s greatest attributes to a lot of fencers. At the same time, it is important to keep in mind that you will undertake the journey as an individual.

Topline: Your success or failure depends on you.

Not Swashbuckling

In most films, sword fighters clash their weapons together over and over. But unlike in the movies, fencing touches are usually very quick and efficient. A fencer’s blade will rarely touch his opponent’s more than two or three times before a hit is scored.

Additionally, fencing is a modern sport that uses modern equipment and technology that is distinct from the various practices that gave birth to it. You won’t find dueling or horses anywhere near a fencing piste.

Topline: Fencing is a modern sport that is distinct from the movies or from dueling traditions.

Elite College Sport

Fencing is a sport with a very intense college scene. While in some other sports, the NCAA amateur rules prevent the highest level of play in college (as athletes that are paid for the sport are not allowed to compete in the NCAA), the lack of a true professional scene in fencing means that the absolute highest level of competition showcases itself at the NCAA college championships.

Additionally, unlike some sports, the best fencers in the country will go to top universities such as Harvard, Columbia, and Northwestern. These schools are very strong in competition at the NCAAs - 3 out of the last 5 team championships were won by Ivy League schools. If you’re interesting in learning more about NCAA fencing, check out our complete guide to NCAA fencing just below.

Topline: Fencing is a top sport among some of the best universities in the United States.