Introduction to Fencing 109

Introduction to fencing competition must include some strategy. In any battle plan, you need to have a strategy to win. In this lecture, I will teach what is meant by second intention.

- Sept. 2017

As I mentioned in my previous lectures, fencing is like playing chess. You have to plan ahead a few moves while on your feet.

In advanced fencing strategy, you need to use “second intention” as one of your repertoire of moves.

Here are three specific examples in epee fencing:

1. You start by making a small attack to the opponent’s wrist, not intending to land. In the process, you advance a little and also expose your forearm slightly. This is an “invitation” to your opponent to make a simple direct attack. You anticipate her move and make a quick parry and riposte to score.
2. You start by initiate an attack on a slow tempo, as the opponent try to counter attack , you quickly reverse your direction and retreat. Your opponent is drawn in and continue to pursue you. While retreating, you use your guard to block and score the touch as she rushes forward.
3. Using distance to your advantage – In lecture #5, I talk about keeping a proper fencing distance. Now, you can use distance to gain the upper hand. You start by slowly increase you fencing distance as you are dancing on the strip just so slightly about 6 inches or so. Now, initiate a simple beat attack on your opponent with a short lunge, again not intending to hit your target. This move will invite your opponent to counter with an attack. You anticipate her move and perform a simple parry and riposte to score.

In all three examples, the actions are choreographed by you. You create the circumstance so that your opponent is mislead thinking they have a slight advantage meanwhile you are one step ahead of them. This is called a second intention attack.

A Warning: Against an experienced fencer, these moves may not work. Because, they are also thinking ahead just as you are. In example A, all she needs to do is a simple disengage to defeat your parry. In example B, she may choose to stop the attack in mid-stream and regroup. In example C, she could anticipate your moves and counter by disengage around your blade and score.

Remember, usually, there is a counter move to every action.