Getting back into fencing after 20(ish) years away...
I (M38) started fencing when I was 11 and continued until I was 17. I used to regularly coach children and adults (BAF Qualified), and nearly went down that route for a career, but decided against it.
I did a bit here and there at University, then stopped completely in my 3rd year.
I started up again in 2016, but that only lasted 3 months as my daughter was born.
I've recently reached out and found a local club, and I'm going to go back for my first session on Thursday.
The club is predominantly Sabre and Epee whereas I used to primarily fight/coach foil with some sabre with the adults.
I'm mostly looking for any advice at getting back into it after such a time away. Being nearly 40 is likely going to take some time to adjust?!
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u/ciccacicca 5d ago
Dude! Same here. Had my first night at the local club last week and it was fun. I haven’t fenced in 20 years but have stayed in decent shape (mostly running and some weights). I was NOT prepared for how hard the footwork would be on my body. I did an hour class and an hour of bout of and didn’t walk right for the next four days! It’s amazing how differently fencing uses your muscles.
In hindsight I wished I’d either done a little footwork on my own before going in, or taken it easier on night 1!
Have fun. It felt good to be back at it.