Intro to Fencing

Intro to Fencing is a short, structured starter program for new fencers at NCF Boulder.

It follows the Free Trial Lesson and is the standard next step for new fencers who benefit from more than a single introductory session before joining an ongoing program.

Intro to Fencing is designed to build foundational skills, establish training habits, and support accurate placement into the right ongoing training environment.

What Intro to Fencing Is

Intro to Fencing is:

  • Coach-led and structured

  • Designed for beginners with no prior fencing experience

  • Appropriate for youth, teens, and adults

  • Focused on learning how fencing training works at NCF

This is not a drop-in class and not a casual trial period. It is a purposeful introduction to both fencing fundamentals and the NCF training environment.

What Fencers Learn

During Intro to Fencing, athletes work on:

  • basic footwork and movement

  • blade control and coordination

  • simple offensive and defensive actions

  • distance, timing, and spatial awareness

  • fencing etiquette and safety expectations

Instruction is hands-on, coach-directed, and paced to support real learning without rushing.

All required fencing equipment is provided during Intro to Fencing.

Why Intro to Fencing Matters

Intro to Fencing serves two essential purposes.

1) Skill Foundation

Athletes learn the core movements and concepts that make future training safer, clearer, and more productive.

2) Accurate Placement

Fencing readiness cannot be assessed reliably in a single session. Over multiple sessions, coaches can observe patterns such as:

  • focus and attention in a group setting

  • responsiveness to instruction and correction

  • comfort with equipment and proximity

  • ability to function safely and productively in shared space

This helps prevent athletes from being rushed into the wrong environment early and supports long-term progress.

What Happens After Intro to Fencing

At the end of Intro to Fencing, coaches recommend next steps based on readiness.

Placement is coach-directed and may include:

  • Learn to Fence or other youth entry-level training

  • Youth Development programs (when appropriate)

  • Teen or adult training pathways

  • guidance on the right balance of lessons and group training

There is no self-placement, and there is no pressure to move faster than is appropriate.

USA Fencing Membership

Athletes participating in Intro to Fencing are required to obtain a USA Fencing membership.

For new fencers, this is typically the Introductory membership, a low-cost entry-level option designed for club training. Coaches are happy to help families select the correct membership when the time comes.

USA Fencing membership supports insurance coverage and is required for participation beyond the trial stage.

Who Intro to Fencing Is For

Intro to Fencing is appropriate for:

  • first-time fencers

  • youth entering structured training

  • teens and adults new to the sport

  • families looking for a clear, supported entry point

No prior experience is required.

In Short

Intro to Fencing is where real training begins for most new fencers.

It provides:

  • a solid foundation

  • clear expectations

  • a structured introduction to how practice works

  • thoughtful, coach-directed placement into ongoing programs

This step helps athletes start in the right place—and keeps training safe, focused, and effective from the beginning.