Renaissance Fencing Tutorial 2 Stoccata Thrust
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Time Thrust·Edinburgh Renaissance Fencing Academy
The second ERFA online tutorial video - now with better resolution! This time we look at how to practise the stoccata th…
Time Thrust
SubFamilyタイム・スラスト(Taimu Surasuto)
Translation: Counter-time thrust
Overview
The Time Thrust (Arrêt) is a stop-hit delivered into the opponent's attack, exploiting a tempo where the attacker is committed but has not yet reached the target. [1] It requires precise timing and courage to thrust into an incoming attack. [1] In épée, the time thrust is one of the highest-percentage tactical actions. [1]
Time ThrustStop ThrustArrêtContre-Temps
History & Origin
Effectiveness
The Time Thrust remains a core technique in modern competitive fencing and historical swordsmanship. [1]
Lineage
Competition Record
Used in FIE international fencing competition
Images
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Biomechanical Mechanism
Primary Action — Time Thrust-specific fencing mechanics
Joints Involved — Arm (extension/rotation), wrist (angulation), legs (lunge drive)
Force Vector — Technique-specific
Leverage Principle — Forte-to-foible blade leverage and body mechanics
Position & Entry
From en garde — Execute the time thrust
From engagement — Transition into time thrust
Variants
Direct time thrust
Indirect time thrust
Compound time thrust
Videos
1 video
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Ratings
Risk of injury to the person this technique is applied to
3
Moderate3/10
Sport fencing with protective equipment; historically lethal with sharp weapons
Skill level needed to execute this technique reliably
Expert
Whether this technique is allowed under major competition rule sets
— FIE — Legal fencing technique — governed by FIE rules for...
FIE Rules of CompetitionPDFHEMA — Legal in historical fencing competition {src— various organizations
Training Notes
✓Practise with a partner in controlled conditions (Pollock et al., 1902)
✓Focus on economy of motion
✓Develop blade sentiment through slow-speed drills
Common Mistakes
!Over-extending
!Telegraphing the action
!Poor recovery
Related Techniques
Counter Techniques
Setup Chain
1En garde → Preparation → Time Thrust → Recovery
Sources & References
Primary Source
Fencing (Pollock, Grove & Prevost, 1902)
1Book[1] Pollock, W.H., Grove, F.C. and Prevost, C. (1902). Fencing, Boxing, Wrestling. Longmans, Green, and Co. Badminton Library of Sports and Pastimes. [2] Castle, E. (1885). Schools and Masters of Fence. George Bell and Sons.
description, historyOrigin: sourced from Pollock, W
2Citation[1] Pollock, W.H., Grove, F.C. and Prevost, C. (1902). Fencing, Boxing, Wrestling. Longmans, Green, and Co. Badminton Library of Sports and Pastimes. [2] Castle, E. (1885). Schools and Masters of Fence. George Bell and Sons.
description, historyOrigin: sourced from Pollock, W
Community
Athletics
Requires good arm extension
Quick reflexes
Balance and footwork
Notes
The time thrust (stop thrust / counter-time) is an attack made into the opponent's preparation — the defender attacks before the attacker's action is completed. Requires perfect timing and is one of the most difficult fencing actions. (Fencing technique manuals; Biomechanics of Human Motion)
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my body movements feel like when executing a Time Thrust?
Your movements should be smooth and controlled, stretching and contracting in a manner similar to a resistance band. Think of an elasticated, springy movement rather than sharp and jagged motions when judging whether you're executing the body movements correctly.
How does the 16th century stoccata differ from a modern lunge?
In the 16th century style, you push out with the weapon first and expand the body before taking a step forward, keeping your limbs relaxed and unlocked throughout. This differs from later period lunges which have a different sequencing and mechanics.
How does the Time Thrust work?
The Time Thrust (Arrêt) is a stop-hit delivered into the opponent's attack, exploiting a tempo where the attacker is committed but has not yet reached the target. It requires precise timing and courage to thrust into an incoming attack.
Where does the Time Thrust come from?
The Time Thrust was codified in European fencing treatises from the 16th century onward. Italian and French schools developed the technique into its modern form through centuries of refinement.
Is the Time Thrust legal in competition?
FIE: legal — Legal fencing technique — governed by FIE rules for foil, épée, and sabre; HEMA: legal — Legal in historical fencing competition
How dangerous is the Time Thrust?
Danger rating 3/10. Sport fencing with protective equipment; historically lethal with sharp weapons
How do I set up the Time Thrust?
The standard setup chain: En garde → Preparation → Time Thrust → Recovery.
How do I defend against the Time Thrust?
Standard counters include: Counter-parry / Distance management / Stop-hit.
What are the variants of the Time Thrust?
Common variants: Direct time thrust; Indirect time thrust; Compound time thrust.
How effective is the Time Thrust in competition?
Used in FIE international fencing competition
What are common mistakes when doing the Time Thrust?
Top errors to watch for: Over-extending / Telegraphing the action / Poor recovery.
What are other names for the Time Thrust?
The Time Thrust is also known as Taimu Surasuto, Time Thrust, Stop Thrust, Arrêt, Contre-Temps.