En garde: a guide to fencing

Not just a clash of swords and some fancy footwork, this ancient sport is an art form that demands agility, discipline and control

- Charlotte Reather

EN GARDE. Prêts? Allez! As top athletes prepare to do sporting battle at the Paris 2024 Olympics, readers' attention may be drawn to the shooting or equestrian events. However, I encourage you to consider the ancient and balletic art of fencing. The setting is the spectacular Grand Palais, with its magnificent glass roof, in the heart of Paris: fencing's classical home.

On first thought, fencing conjures images of knights clashing swords, aristocratic duels, even gladiators in the colosseum, and (if you're of a certain vintage) undoubtedly Errol Flynn. For the middle-aged it's the Bond film with Madonna Die Another Day - and for youngsters it's Game of Thrones. It was practised by the ancient Babylonians, Persians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Given its rich history, it's extraordinary to think fencing is now an activity you can do 'down your local leisure centre. Because, aside from kendo (the Japanese version of the sport) this is the only sport where you can attack your opponent with a weapon.

Paradoxically, there is a romance to the art form. Maybe the historical violence conjures the possibility of mortal jeopardy, offering spectators a palpable thrill? Perhaps it's to do with the power, speed and athleticism on display? There is certainly something alluring about the outfit, although the romance runs deeper than that, emanating from the ancient codes of chivalry woven into the sport like the metallic thread of the lamé sabre jacket. For example, when fencers take their places on the piste (the narrow court where they exchange thrusts and parries) they start by saluting their opponent, the referee and the audience by pointing the tip of their sword before bringing the hand guard to their chin. Only then do they don their mask and, after every bout, remove it before once again saluting the referee and their opponent.