World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist sits down for a chat with Julianna Revesz and Tamas Kovacs to help fencers taking it to the next level on and off the piste

Christmas party 2022 with World Champion and Olympic Silver medalist Gergely Siklosi

The fleche is a powerful and aggressive attack in fencing that allows you to quickly close the distance to your opponent. It involves a running movement and can be very effective when executed correctly. Here are the steps and tips to perform a successful fleche: Steps to Perform a Fleche Starting Position: Begin in the en garde position, with your knees slightly bent, weight balanced on both feet, and your weapon arm extended. Preparation: Focus on your target and be ready to move explosively. The fleche requires a commitment to the attack, so be confident in your approach. Initiate the Attack: Push off with your back leg and start running forward. Your front leg will lead the movement, and your back leg will follow. As you begin to run, keep your body low and lean slightly forward to maintain balance and control. Extend Your Arm: Simultaneously extend your weapon arm towards your opponent, aiming for the valid target area. Your non-weapon arm should remain behind you for balance. Pass Your Opponent: As you approach your opponent, continue running past them. Your goal is to strike your opponent while moving forward and then quickly get out of their reach. Keep your weapon arm extended and maintain your focus on your opponent until the attack is complete. Recovery: After passing your opponent, turn around quickly and return to the en garde position. Be ready to defend against any counter-attacks. Tips for Successful Execution Commitment: The fleche requires full commitment. Hesitation can lead to missed opportunities or counter-attacks. Speed and Control: Practice the fleche with a focus on both speed and control. You need to move quickly, but also maintain balance and precision. Timing: The timing of the fleche is crucial. Look for openings in your opponent's defense and execute the attack when they are least expecting it. Practice: Like any fencing technique, the fleche requires practice. Incorporate it into your training sessions to build muscle memory and confidence. Safety: Ensure you have enough space to practice the fleche safely. Avoid running into walls or other obstacles. By mastering the fleche, you can add a powerful and unexpected attack to your fencing repertoire. It can be a game-changer in matches, allowing you to catch your opponent off guard and score valuable points.

Putting on the Fencing Mask with One Hand Preparation: Ensure your mask is positioned correctly and your fencing jacket and other protective gear are securely fastened. Hold the Mask: Use your dominant hand to hold the mask by the bib (the padded part that covers your neck). Grasp it firmly but gently, ensuring you have a good grip. Position the Mask: Tilt your head slightly forward and bring the mask up to your face. Aim to align the mask’s front opening with your face, so it covers your head and neck adequately. Slide the Mask On: Gently slide the mask over your face, ensuring the bib covers your neck. Use a smooth motion to bring the mask down until it fits snugly on your head.

Counter pushers can be quite challenging to fence against, as they tend to apply constant forward pressure and try to dominate the distance. Here are some tips to handle counter pushers effectively: 1. Use Distance Control Maintain Optimal Distance: Keep a safe distance from the counter pusher to avoid their relentless pressure. Use your footwork to stay just out of their reach while remaining ready to attack. Adjust Distance: Practice moving in and out quickly. This can disrupt their rhythm and make it harder for them to maintain constant pressure. 2. Employ Deceptive Movements Feints and Disengages: Use feints and disengages to create openings in their defense. By making them react to false attacks, you can find opportunities to land a successful touch. Change of Tempo: Vary your attack speed and timing. Counter pushers often rely on predictable patterns, so breaking the tempo can catch them off guard. 3. Effective Parries and Ripostes Strong Parries: Use strong parries to deflect their attacks and create openings for ripostes. Make sure your parries are precise and well-timed. Immediate Ripostes: Follow up your parries with immediate and direct ripostes. Counter pushers may not expect a quick counterattack, giving you an advantage. 4. Angles and Lines Use Angles: Attack from different angles to bypass their defense. Angled attacks can be harder for counter pushers to predict and block. Change Lines: Switch between high and low lines to keep them guessing. For example, alternate between attacking their head and their body. 5. Stay Relaxed and Confident Stay Calm: Counter pushers can be intimidating, but it's important to stay calm and composed. Focus on your technique and strategy rather than their aggression. Confidence: Believe in your abilities and execute your plan with confidence. Self-assurance can go a long way in overcoming a challenging opponent. By implementing these tips, you can better handle counter pushers and improve your overall performance in fencing. Keep practicing and refining your skills, and you'll find effective ways to counter their tactics. Happy fencing!

Finger Control: Use your fingers to control the tip of the blade. Small adjustments with your fingers can make a big difference in your accuracy and precision. Practice using your fingers to guide the blade during attacks and parries. Relaxation: Avoid gripping the epee too tightly. A relaxed grip allows for quicker and more fluid movements. Tension in your hand and arm can lead to fatigue and reduced performance.

How to Put on Your Fencing Kit Base Layer: Undergarments: Wear comfortable athletic undergarments that wick away sweat. Many fencers prefer wearing a thin, moisture-wicking shirt and shorts or leggings underneath their fencing gear. Fencing Jacket: Putting It On: Slip your arms into the sleeves of the fencing jacket. The jacket usually has a front or side zipper; zip it up securely. Fit: Ensure that the jacket fits snugly but allows for a full range of motion. It should cover your torso completely. Plastron (Underarm Protector): Wearing It: The plastron is worn underneath the fencing jacket on your dominant arm's side to provide extra protection. Slip it over your head and adjust it so that it covers your shoulder and underarm area. Chest Protector: For Women: Women should wear a chest protector underneath their fencing jacket for added safety. For Men: Men can also wear a chest protector if desired for additional protection. Fencing Breeches: Putting Them On: Pull on your fencing breeches, which typically reach just below the knees. Fasten the waist securely, and ensure the breeches fit comfortably without restricting movement. Socks: Wear long, knee-high socks that cover the gap between the bottom of the breeches and your fencing shoes. Fencing Shoes: Proper Footwear: Put on your fencing shoes, which should provide good grip and support for lateral movements. Ensure they are tied securely. Glove: Dominant Hand: Wear the fencing glove on your dominant hand (the hand you hold the weapon with). The glove should cover the wrist and fit snugly for better grip and control. Mask: Head Protection: Put on your fencing mask last. Ensure the mask fits securely and that the bib (the padded part that covers your neck) is properly positioned. Adjusting Straps: Adjust the straps or fastening mechanisms to ensure the mask stays in place during movement. Final Check Mobility: Move around and perform some fencing movements to check if your gear fits well and doesn't restrict your movement. Safety: Double-check that all fastenings are secure and that there are no exposed areas that could lead to injury. By following these steps, you'll be fully equipped and ready to fence safely and comfortably. Happy fencing! 🤺 If you have any more ques