Safety and Injuries

Fencing originated as part of warfare, but now it is one of the safest of modern sports.  Fencers injure themselves while playing other sports. This is because there is no contact and it has low floor impact. It sounds dangerous when it is said that you are using a "Weapon" but, really you are using a toy that looks somewhat like a sword. The blades (not sharp) are made of spring steal so they bend when hitting (touching) and if there is to much force the blade snaps into two pieces. Rarely does a fencer get hurt while fencing. No Minnesota Sword Club fencer has been hurt with an injury more serious than a sprained ankle while fencing.

Why is fencing so safe? Because it is really a non-contact martial sport and the "hits" are made as the name "Touch" describes. The blades bend so when a score is made the fencers feels little more than a touch. Equipment also plays a factor in safety. The clothing is fairly lightweight, but well made. As long as a fencer has a mask on and is fully covered, without holes in the clothes, he/she is safe. In international competitions special equipment is worn due to the intensity of world level competitors, but few accidents have happened.