Fencing
To some, the practice required to develop good form in fencing may at first seem tedious. This practice, however, not only rounds out the form of the fencer, but also is very beneficial in that it exercises the muscles of the entire body and in that it cultivates quick thinking and stimulates mental alertness. From the physical point of view fencing tends to develop symmetrically all the muscles of the body, to give a lightness and quickness of movement, gracefulness, and generally to strengthen the body. To fence well it is necessary to think quickly and act calmly. The fencer must judge what is best suited for her to do. She must divine her opponent’s attack. Thus she must be mentally alert all the time.
For the beginner and inexperienced fencer, it is necessary to have a good foil, one that is the proper weight for the strength of the fencer. Never use a foil that is too heavy; it is better to have a light than heavy one. A foil must also have the proper balance. To test the foil lay the blade across the finger about an inch below the hilt. If the weight is properly distributed it will balance. To avoid any accidents a fine-meshed mask and plastron or jacket should always be worn. If a glove is worn it should be loose enough to allow perfect freedom of action, but not so loose as to be cumbersome.
Rubber-soled shoes or a shoe that will not slip should be worn.