Skills/Fencing 3

This General Skills & Fencing session continues to develop the children’s movement, reactions, coordination and tactical awareness through a varied mix of energetic games, skill challenges and fencing. As the programme progresses, encourage children to become increasingly confident while maintaining good control, concentration and technique.

The session begins with Fire Sword – Blue, Red & Black, a lively reaction game where children must constantly watch the coach and respond to the different coloured swords. The blue sword freezes children, the red sword turns them into flames, while the black sword eliminates them from the round. The game provides a fun way to test reactions, listening, concentration and quick decision-making, while creating plenty of energy at the start of the class.

Position & Movement 4 (King Says) then continues to build on the children’s core fencing foundations, reinforcing good positioning, balance and increasingly confident and controlled footwork through a fun 'Simon Says' style quick thinking game.

Hoop Elimination V2 develops the familiar challenge further, encouraging children to combine speed, movement and reactions with awareness and tactical thinking. Children should begin to recognise opportunities, anticipate what others might do and make smart decisions rather than relying on speed alone.

Reaction Pads – 15 Points provides a focused challenge that tests hand-eye coordination, accuracy, concentration and reaction speed. Encourage children to remain controlled as the pressure builds, prioritising accurate and purposeful movements.

The Fencer & Coach 4 section gives children the opportunity to transfer their developing skills into fencing matches. Encourage fencers to think about distance, timing, movement and choosing the right moment to attack, while their partner observes from the coaching role and provides positive, useful feedback.  Children should be encouraged to continue focusing on 'patterns of movement' and there should be one pair change.  

Throughout the session, reinforce that successful fencing combines speed with control, observation and good decision-making. Keep the activities energetic and competitive while celebrating clever thinking, improved technique and positive coaching alongside winning and scoring points.