Fencing – Five Rules to Know

• Match Format
  Matches are one-on-one and last up to three periods of three minutes each, with a 15-point target to win. For team events, matches are scored on a first-to-45-points system.
• Scoring
  Points are awarded for valid touches using the tip (foil, epee) or edge (sabre). Foil targets the torso, epee the whole body, and sabre the upper body above the waist.
• Valid Target Areas
  Each weapon has specific target zones. In foil, only the torso is valid; in epee, the entire body is fair game; and in sabre, the target area encompasses everything above the waist, excluding the hands.
• Penalties
  Fouls, such as crossing boundaries, covering the target area, or unsportsmanlike conduct, result in warnings, point deductions, or disqualification.
• Right of Way
  In foil and sabre, when both fencers land a touch simultaneously, the point is awarded based on “right of way.” This rule prioritizes the fencer who initiated the attack, compelling the opponent to defend or evade before counterattacking.

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