Circular Parries: Fundamental Mechanics

Circular parries can be executed from each of the four basic parry positions in foil and épée. The defender responds to an attacker's lunge by executing a small circular motion beneath the opponent's blade, redirecting it to the opposite line from the original attack. This technique is foundational for effective blade work and defensive positioning.

Circular Six Parry Drill

The circular six parry is demonstrated against a basic four position attack. In this practice drill, the attacker executes a primary attack followed by a remise, while the defender responds to the initial attack with a circular six, then counters the remise with a second circular six and riposte. Regular practice of ripostes from parry positions develops timing and offensive follow-through.

Parry Five and Riposte: Advanced Technique

The parry five and riposte is an advanced and moderately risky maneuver that requires consistent practice for effective application in competition. In épée, particular caution is necessary as the head remains a valid target area. This technique demands precise timing and blade control to execute safely and efficiently.

Parry Five Execution: Body Mechanics

The defender anticipates the attacker's lunge and responds with either a reverse lunge or diving motion beneath the opponent's blade. Simultaneously, the defender raises the blade arm above the head into parry five position, angling the tip toward the opponent so contact occurs as the attacker advances into the blade. Arm extension can be added for increased reach when necessary.

Stop Thrust: Specialized Counter-Attack

The stop thrust is a specialized technique effective against aggressive opponents who advance aggressively and consume ground. Success requires speed, agility, coordination, balance, and flexibility. The maneuver is best practiced during controlled backward movement and executed with precise footwork and blade placement.

Stop Thrust Footwork and Execution

To execute the stop thrust, the fencer uses the heel of the front foot to strike the heel of the back foot, driving the back foot upward and backward to halt momentum instantly. This positioning creates maximum body extension while displacing the target area, allowing the aggressive opponent to run directly into the blade for a point in line. The technique transforms retreating momentum into an offensive counter.

Fencing 101: Skills to Win: Circular 6, Parry 5 & Riposte, The Stop Cut

RecSport Education

Septime Parry

2 min read·6 key moments·PT5M47S video

Key Takeaways

•Circular Parries: Fundamental Mechanics
•Circular Six Parry Drill
•Parry Five and Riposte: Advanced Technique
•Parry Five Execution: Body Mechanics

This video covers the circular 6 parry, and the riposte from a parry 5 position, and a version of the stop thrust I learned in college and find to be effective in some situations. Performed by: Ryan and Gregg Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RecSport Other links: Gregg's Channel, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmYimvqLcsPLcoO8Z-k8GHQ

Related Techniques

Octave Parry Quarte Parry Sixte Parry

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about septime parry?

This video covers circular parries: fundamental mechanics, circular six parry drill, parry five and riposte: advanced technique. It provides detailed instruction from RecSport Education.

How long does it take to learn septime parry?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.