Preparation is Key: All You Need at a Saber Competition

New York, NY (Oct. 2021) — The fencer regularly attends class, takes lessons with their coach and practices footwork and blade work on their own. They have found and registered for competition. They’re all set, right? Wrong. 

There are two more ways you have to prepare to ensure success. 

The first is preparing your uniform and equipment. Fencing can be a dangerous sport and it’s imperative that you have the right equipment for protection and to perform to your highest potential. For competition at a saber tournament, you will need: 

• Electric Saber Fencing Mask

• Fencing Jacket (Whites, Dry)

• Fencing Pants (Whites, Dry)

• Underarm Protector

• Plastic Chest Protector

• Electric Fencing Jacket for Saber or Lamé (Buy Stainless steel! It will last longer)

• 2 Body Cords (You must always have a backup at a competition.)

• 2 Head Cords (You must always have a backup at a competition.)

• Fencing Socks (No skin can show between sneaker and the hem of the fencing pants.)

• 800-Newton Saber Fencing Glove (Practice gloves cannot be used in competitions.)

• 2 Sabers (Y-8 and Y-10 use "2" length sabers. Y-12 and up use "5" length sabers. You must have a backup saber at a competition.)

It is recommended that you have a bag specifically designed to carry all of your fencing gear. It is also recommended that you have fencing shoes.

All of this equipment is sold at Morehouse Fencing Gear and at TMFC locations. There are many other purveyors of fencing gear available online and at competitions. 

The second way to prepare is getting the fencer in the right frame of mind for competition. The day before, make sure the fencer has a healthy meal and a good night’s sleep. The morning of competition, make sure the fencer eats a nutritious breakfast. Above all, the fencer should think about the skills the coaches have worked on and what strategies the fencer can use while on the strip.

En garde!

*****

Tim Morehouse Fencing Club is the premier fencing club in the New York City area, offering fencing lessons in Manhattan, Westchester (Port Chester), and Connecticut (Stamford). With instruction available in saber, foil, and epee fencing, TMFC has programs for all levels of experience and competition.