feintning

Feintning is the act of feinting in combat sports and other competitive activities. It involves a deceptive movement intended to mislead an opponent about what action will come next. A feint is usually designed to provoke a reaction—such as a parry, a guard, or a shift in stance—while the attacker commits to a different action or delays the real move.

In fencing, feinting is a deliberate false attack intended to draw a parry or reveal the opponent’s defense, creating an opening for a genuine strike. Fencers use blade feints, body feints, and footwork to control tempo and distance. Feints can be single, double, or follow a sequence to mislead the opponent.

In boxing and other martial arts, feints are used to induce a defensive reaction and create an opportunity for a real attack. Common forms include head feints, shoulder feints, and foot feints, as well as feints that pressure the opponent to move or commit. In team sports, fake passes or shots serve a similar purpose by drawing defenders out of position.

Effective feinting relies on timing, economy of motion, and credible misdirection. Overly obvious or telegraphed feints can backfire, leaving the attacker exposed or fatigued. Training typically combines technique drills, partner drills with controlled responses, and slowed, then live sparring to develop timing and deception without compromising safety.