Escrime

Escrime is the French word for fencing, a combat sport practiced with a sword. It is one of the oldest and most elegant of the modern Olympic sports. The sport evolved from traditional dueling practices and has been codified into a set of rules and techniques designed for safety and fairness.

There are three distinct weapons used in escrime: foil, épée, and saber. Each weapon has its own unique characteristics in terms of weight, flexibility, and the valid target area for scoring points. Foil is a thrusting weapon with a flexible blade, and valid touches are scored with the tip only on the torso. Épée is also a thrusting weapon but is heavier and has a stiffer blade, with the entire body being a valid target. Saber is a cutting and thrusting weapon, and valid touches are scored with the tip or edge of the blade on the upper body, including the arms and head.

Modern escrime is governed by international and national federations. Competitions involve bouts between two fencers, who aim to score a predetermined number of touches on their opponent. Electronic scoring systems are used to register valid touches accurately. Escrime requires a combination of physical prowess, strategic thinking, and split-second reflexes. It is practiced by individuals of all ages and skill levels worldwide.