Fencing for Young People

How Old Should A Child Be Before Learning To Fence?

For children, fencing demands a lot. Lessons presents some of the same challenges as those posed by piano lessons. Students must be able to concentrate for a protracted period, tolerate repeated frustration and be willing to indulge in seemingly endless repetition. Added to this, they must be physically coordinated, have good balance and possess an uncommon sense of timing and depth perception. It is important to appreciate that while fencing may cultivate these attributes, it doesn't create them; they must already be developed to a degree. On average, children are ready to benefit from fencing lessons by the age of twelve years.

In deciding whether their children are physically and mentally ready to face the challenges of learning to fence, parents should know that there are some fencing teachers who will take pupils at any age, put weapons in their hands and turn them loose to flail aimlessly about without rhyme or reason. What they present as a fencing "program" is little more than children's day care with a fencing theme. Teachers like these are modern-day counterparts to fencing masters of dubious repute from long ago who were willing to teach the invincible "botta segretta" (secret thrust) and the impenetrable "parata universale" (universal parry) to naive pupils willing to part with large sums of money.

If your child is under twelve years of age, but you nevertheless believe he or she is ready to meet the challenges posed by learning to fence, you may make an appointment for an introductory lesson. Come prepared to remain present and observe the lesson in its entirety so that you may better appreciate the level of difficulty your son or daughter will be facing, and whether they are up to the challenge.

Thirteen year-olds Aaron Todd and Claire Martin cross blades at
La Spada Nimica's annual barbeque in Mill Valley.

Where Can My Child Learn To Fence In Marin?

For practical considerations fencing at the Sausalito Parks and Recreation facility is restricted to students aged twelve and older. Consequently, younger students must take their lessons privately at the Mill Valley location. Lessons are currently available Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M., and Saturday mornings until noon.