learn to fence

Today was my third private lesson at the fencing studio. Fencing has proven to be far more difficult for me than just learning footwork and form – it requires a confidence that I am still piecing together. I’m nervous and shy when interacting with my teacher, and building up the aggression to lunge is difficult. However, since this ties in with my personal growth, I know that I can be nervous yet still do my best. Just because I’m terrified right now of lunging at my teacher doesn’t mean I always will be.
Beyond being shy, it really is quite fun. I can advance and retreat much better now, and I keep my stance and balance well. It really is quite a workout of the legs as well as good cardio. Through advancing lunge practice, I was gasping and sweating, my heart was racing and my legs felt on fire. But that was great, and I like knowing I’ll get stronger and faster.
My teacher is very bubbly and kind. She is young and has been fencing for more than half of her life. But while that is intimidating, she doesn’t carry herself as someone who thinks her skill makes her better than anyone. She is open and nonjudgmental, patient and nurturing. I’m sure that factored into my early hesitation to hit her with my foil, but because she is so friendly I have grown to trust her and so I know when she says “Lunge – hit me harder!” that it is okay.
I’m looking forward to my next lesson, and until then I need to practice my advancing and lunging, and do arm exercises and wall sits to get in better shape. I can’t wait to find out what I’m going to learn next!

For the past several years I have driven by the fencing studio almost daily, and today was the first time I walked through their door. Something prompted me to immediate action – life called for an enriching class of some sort, and when “Fencing” came to mind, helped by the subliminal scenery from my commute, the spark was lit. Besides, there’s never been a time that I’ve watched The Princess Bride without thinking, “I wish I could Fence.” Well “En Garde” new Goal! The first lesson is free and it begins next week.