Adult beginners

This is a structured beginner course designed for adults who are completely new to fencing, or those who are trying the sport again after a long time away. You don't need any prior experience or your own equipment.

The course is suitable for people aged 16-75.

All body types, genders, and levels of athletic ability are welcome.

If you are looking for our beginner course for people under the age of 16, the relevant page is here.

We are a British Fencing registered club, which means all of our coaches are professionally trained to deliver classes safely and expertly.

The beginner course runs over six weekly sessions, gradually introducing more advanced concepts at a pace suited to beginners and with plenty of guidance throughout.

Our friendly coaches also provide an overview of the history and traditions of fencing, providing background on how it evolved from medieval weaponry to the modern Olympic sport of today.

Session format

Sessions run for an hour and 15 minutes each week and follow a consistent structure:

• Fencing-specific warm-ups and mobility exercises
• Footwork fundamentals
• Bladework and technical drills
• Sparring practice

No special equipment is required; the club provides all fencing kit for beginners. However, please do bring:

• Comfortable sports clothing (e.g. t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms)
• Indoor trainers
• Water bottle (a drinking fountain is also available on-site)

If you enjoy the sport and want to carry on after the course is finished, we would be delighted to welcome you as a member of the club. We offer six weeks use of all necessary equipment for new members, totally free.