Community projects
Programmes that bring fencing to people who might never have tried it.
Our projects
Start Fencing
New to fencing? Everything you need to pick up a sword for the first time: how the sport works, who it’s for and where to try it.
Explore
How fencing works
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The weapons
Foil: a light, thrusting weapon, originally used for training soldiers to fight in battle. The target is limited to the trunk of the…
The rules
In a nutshell – it’s complicated! Fencers can (and do) fence for years without knowing all the rules and the rules change, so you have…
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Competitions
Whilst for many people they are perfectly happy enjoying fencing on a recreational basis in clubs, others might want to start competing.
Glossary
The terms you’ll hear in fencing, explained.
Fun facts
It is said that the tip of the fencing weapon is the second fastest moving object in sport; the first is the marksman’s bullet.
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The Explore Fencing app
The Explore Fencing App is a free-to-download, customisable and interactive app that introduces fencing skills through games. The first…
Fencing for everyone
Inclusive fencing
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About Para Fencing
Originally devised at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in the UK, the sport then known as competitive wheelchair fencing was first introduced…
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SwordSeat™
Funded through generous donations from the BF Charity, on behalf of British Fencing and directed by Rick Rodgers, Dr. Ed Elias designed…
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Muslim Girls Fence
“There is something powerful about picking up a sword, and this project allows participants to capture this power and see fencing and…
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Swords After Surgery
Welcome to Swords After Surgery, a sword-based exercise class for people recovering from breast cancer treatment.
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Fencing 4 Change: Autism Project
Fencing 4 Change: Autism Project is a programme delivered in partnership with the Change Foundation that uses fencing to improve…
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Seated Fencing FAQ
Here you’ll find the answers to many common questions about sitting down to fence. If you don’t find the answers you’re looking for…
In your community
Bring fencing to more people
Fencing in schools
Introduce pupils to fencing, with training and kit for teachers.
For schoolsUniformed groups
Fencing sessions and badges for Scouts, Guides and cadets.
Find out moreA–Z
Everything in Start Fencing
- About Para Fencing Originally devised at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in the UK, the sport then known as competitive wheelchair fencing was first introduced in 1953 and has been a Paralympic sport since Rome in 1960. Popular in Europe since its inception, the sport is now practiced in 73 countries…
- BF Acronyms
- British Disability Fencing Archive In April 2022, British Disability Fencing (BDF) transferred responsibilities to BF. This page is an archive of information previously held on the BDF website, for reference and historical value.
- Buying Para Fencing Equipment and Suppliers Aside from the frame and chairs, equipment for wheelchair fencing does not differ significantly from standing fencing; day chairs or even static chairs can be used in early practice, and most clubs will have fencing equipment they are willing to loan out to new members.
- Community Projects Overview British Fencing’s fifth strategic objective is “to maximise the wider benefits of fencing and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives”
- Did You Know? It is said that the tip of the fencing weapon is the second fastest moving object in sport; the first is the marksman’s bullet.
- Explore Fencing
- Explore Fencing App The Explore Fencing App is a free-to-download, customisable and interactive app that introduces fencing skills through games. The first version has three free games, with plenty more to come. You don’t even need a sword to play along.
- Explore the Glossary of Fencing Terms Looking for an explanation of an acronym? Check the acronyms list here!
- Explore the Rules In a nutshell – it’s complicated! Fencers can (and do) fence for years without knowing all the rules and the rules change, so you have to make an effort to learn and keep up to date. So if you’ve arrived at this page we are pretty impressed with your dedication already!
- Explore the Weapons Foil: a light, thrusting weapon, originally used for training soldiers to fight in battle. The target is limited to the trunk of the body, including the back but not the arms or head.
- Fencing 101 If you are interested in fencing, this Explore Fencing Zone aims to tell you all the basics. Whether you are a spectator or want to put on a mask and hold a sword yourself, here’s what you need to know.
- Fencing 4 Change: Autism Project Fencing 4 Change: Autism Project is a programme delivered in partnership with the Change Foundation that uses fencing to improve physical literacy and reduce the risk of social isolation for young people aged 11 – 16 with autism.
- Get Involved We are really keen to hear about the great work that is going on in the community, so that we can share best practice and celebrate what clubs and coaches are doing in the community.
- Leadership Through Fencing Interested in developing futures leaders in your community, but aren’t sure where to start?
- Leisure Partner Programme New for 2026, bring a unique and dynamic sport to your leisure centre with BF’s Leisure Partner Programme!
- London Youth “British Fencing has enabled us to reach young people with creative attributes who previously hadn’t found a sport that suited them” – London Youth, Sports Development Officer
- Muslim Girls Fence “There is something powerful about picking up a sword, and this project allows participants to capture this power and see fencing and themselves in a different light,” – Georgina Usher, BF CEO
- Seated Fencing FAQ Here you’ll find the answers to many common questions about sitting down to fence. If you don’t find the answers you’re looking for here, contact us.
- Swords After Surgery Welcome to Swords After Surgery, a sword-based exercise class for people recovering from breast cancer treatment.
- SwordSeat™ Purchase FAQ If you have a question about the purchase and delivery of the SwordSeat or the SwordSeat Printed Pattern, please read the FAQ below first before contacting us.
- Uniformed Groups “Our scouts have really enjoyed fencing, and we’re looking forward to completing the sessions to attain the Bronze Award.” – Cornwall Scouts
- Uniformed Groups - FAQs How do I go about getting a qualification to run it as an internal 'scout led' activity?
Last updated 13 Oct 2026