Beginners Philosophy

Beginner's and Fencing

Beginners work through a preset progression starting at the "Basic Level", learning the elementary aspects of the sport, and progress to "Intermediate-Basic", with an emphasis on simple attacks and defenses. The progression continues to "Advanced-Basic" to round out the beginner's fencing skills. At the completion of this level a beginner can truly call him/herself a fencer. There are five additional levels to advance through to further develop techniques, perception and strategy. Each fencer progresses at his/her own pace. Classes vary in intensity and age level. The experienced fencers are encouraged to practice outside of class times with extra bouting hours. Group instruction is in sabre, epee, and foil and includes free use of basic fencing equipment for the first three months. A beginner is expected to wear long sweat pants, sneakers, a T-shirt and a cotton glove.
 
 

The Philosophy of the Minnesota Sword Club

The purpose of the Minnesota Sword Club is to provide instruction and practice space for fencers. Programs are offered for kids, teens and adults who range from beginners to advanced fencers. The philosophy for beginners is mostly educational and recreational. For experienced fencers the emphasis depending upon the fencer's desires, either recreational or competitive. How a person approaches the sport depends upon personal factors. The Minnesota Sword Club is there for all fencers.

Instruction is always positive and we want each fencer to feel success and enjoy what he/she is doing. Besides the skills needed for fencing, special emphasis is placed on learning strategies that are used for success in all athletics and business. Also, fencing has long been known to be excellent in developing self confidence and body awareness. Every fencer is taught based upon his/her own ability by following a progression called the Progressive Pattern System. It allows each fencer to move along a preset sequence of skills at his/her own rate.

Classes, open practice times, fun competitions between club fencers, team competitions, occasional parties and trips to regional and national level meets cover most of the  activities that express the Minnesota Sword Club. The Member's Association sponsored competition trips by the MSC fencers to broaden their enjoyment.