Course Overview

This is Part III of a four-part introduction to épée fencing, focusing on defensive techniques. The instructor will cover the fundamental principles of defense and practical application through structured drills.

Two Principal Defenses in Épée

Épée fencing employs two primary defensive strategies: controlling distance and executing parries. Distance control prevents an opponent from launching effective attacks, while parries physically block incoming blade attacks. Both methods are essential components of sound defensive technique.

Proper Blade and Arm Positioning

The guard must completely shield the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow from attack. The forearm should remain parallel to the floor, pointing directly forward. Raising, lowering, or withdrawing the arm exposes valid target areas and compromises defensive capability.

Controlling Distance with Point in Line

Point in line controls distance in two directions: retreating with the point forward prevents aggressive advances, while advancing with the point forward restricts the opponent's attacking options. Both methods maintain a safe distance and allow the fencer to dictate engagement timing.

Parries in Épée vs. Foil

While épée parries share the same mechanics as foil parries, their objective differs significantly. Épée parries must prevent opponent contact rather than merely establish right-of-way, requiring stronger execution, greater control, and deeper blade placement to eliminate scoring opportunities.

Parry Four: Inside Line Defense

Parry four defends the inside line by catching the opponent's blade with the fork of the épée. The defending blade points upward while controlling the opponent's weak point, making forward advancement impossible. This parry must be executed with sufficient depth to prevent blade recovery.

Parry Six: Outside Line Defense

Parry six protects the outside line beyond the dominant weapon side. The defending blade controls the opponent's attack with the fork, preventing any forward advance. This parry forces the opponent to retreat, as recovery is impossible from a properly executed six.

Parry Two: Low Line Defense

Parry two defends the low line with a downward wrist roll, knuckles pointing upward. The defending fencer hammers the opponent's blade downward, establishing complete control and positioning the point closer to the target. This parry prevents upward blade recovery while maintaining offensive advantage.

Drill Protocol and Practice Recommendations

Each drill consists of two three-minute intervals separated by a thirty-second rest period. Fencers should repeat drills multiple times until achieving complete comfort with the techniques rather than progressing prematurely. Consistent, focused repetition builds the muscle memory necessary for reflexive defensive responses.

Introduction to Beginners Epee - Part III. Defence

OSM Fencing

Septime Parry

2 min read·9 key moments·PT11M6S video

Key Takeaways

•Course Overview
•Two Principal Defenses in Épée
•Proper Blade and Arm Positioning
•Controlling Distance with Point in Line

Introduction to Fencing: Beginners Epee (controlling distance and making parries in inside, outside, and low lines: parries two, four, six) OSM Fencing Intro to Fencing series provides an overview of what fencing is like as well as instruction and drills to help get ready for learning this amazing Olympic sport! Part III. Defence: Defence - 00:25 -Arm Positioning - 01:22 Controlling Distance - 03:15 -Point-in-Line Retreat - 03:54 -Point-in-Line Advance - 04:16 Parries - 04:41 -Lines for Parries - 05:49 -Parry Four (Inside Line) - 06:14 -Parry Six (Outside Line) - 06:47 -Parry Two (Low Line) - 07:29 Drills - 08:15 -Drill I. (Retreating Distance) - 08:50 -Drill II. (Advancing Distance) - 09:10 -Drill III. (The Four & Lunge) - 09:28 -Drill IV. (The Six & Lunge) - 09:46 -Drill V. (The Two & Lunge) - 10:06 Annex Note - 10:25 Note: Introduction to Fencing series are not meant to be taken in place of actual lessons but in conjunction with fencing lessons. Coaches are invaluable to learning any sport! www.osmfencing.com [email protected]

Related Techniques

Octave Parry Quarte Parry Sixte Parry

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about septime parry?

This video covers course overview, two principal defenses in épée, proper blade and arm positioning. It provides detailed instruction from OSM Fencing.

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 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

Step-by-Step Breakdown9 steps