Practice at the Marquette CFS brings fencers all the benefits of an old European Salle. Incorporating training regimens modeled after those of the old masters against a backdrop of the classical European arts, a night at the Marquette CFS is a unique and invigorating experience.
Upon entering the practice space, you will be greeted by one of the fencers or an instructor as well as the sound of symphonic music or choral chants. Some fencers change into workout attire in the back while the others prepare/check their weapons and equipment. Salle business is discussed as well as any plans for later socialization.
Then footwork drills begin to warm fencers up and focus the group on the task of improving their fencing skills. Once footwork is begun, the rest of the evening is all about the business of becoming better fencers. The tone is light but reverent as we help each other strive for the salle goal of habitual excellence.
Once fencers have warmed their muscles via prescribed vigorous footwork, we begin our stretching and strengthening exercises. Following the example started by Louis XIV (who developed the classical ballet positions based upon fencing positions of the time), we utilize ballet stretches and Center Work to develop grace through balance, strength and control of our bodies. Upon completion of the Center Work, we finish with special sets of sit-ups and push-ups to strengthen muscles needed for fencing, which are seldom worked out in modern life.
Now both limber and strong, the fencers don their protective equipment and begin to work on their conventional exercises. These exercises form the basis of all blade work in fencing. They progress in complexity finishing off with complex sets comprised of multiple actions and varying distance. These drills are similar to practicing scales, or katas, or etudes, in some of the other arts.
If one is still a beginner, they will take their lesson at the same time that Senior fencers are practicing their Conventional Exercises. Over the course of two semesters, they will be taken through a curriculum designed to give them a solid foundation in fencing which will allow them to progress into the deeper aspects of the art of fencing. Our instructors are dedicated to helping each student achieve his or her best through this disciplined program. While each student is taught the same material, the ultimate goal is for each to make fencing their own and begin to exhibit their individuality through the art by the end of the second semester.
Drills and beginner classes completed, the senior fencers begin to engage in academic/practice bouts to help each other hone tempo and tactics. The music may change to a more romantic tone such as Verdi, Wagner or Prokofiev. Instructors pull individual senior fencers aside for one on one instruction, or may give a group lesson on a particular subject at this time. Beginner fencers may be encouraged to remain and practice what they have learned today on their own or observe the Senior fencers to learn what they can.
As practice winds to a close, Senior fencers who have gained bouting privileges will engage in Juried Assaults. All fencers not bouting are asked to practice directing or acting as a jury member or observe the assaults and give critique. Serving as an Assault Jury member is an excellent way for a beginner to begin to get a feel for the flow of a bout, the phrasing, tempo and control they will be striving for in their progression.
The evening over, fencers remove their equipment, pack up their
swords, clean up the practice space, thank their instructors, say good
bye to those who must depart, or gather together for some post fencing
socialization at a near-by tavern or cafe.
Come join us for a memorable night of fencing!