Ceding Parry vs. Reactive Parry Mechanics
The instructor contrasts two parrying approaches in épée. A reactive parry requires carrying the opponent's blade from one side across to the defender's target, which presents increased exposure. The ceding parry accomplishes the same defensive objective while remaining on the same side, making it tactically safer.
Ceding Parry Technical Execution
In the ceding parry, the blade remains on the same side of the body rather than crossing the centerline. For a sixte position parry, the defender's wrist modifies the blade angle without large blade movement. This technique occurs on line six-and-a-half rather than requiring a full lateral transfer.
Guard Position and Hand Clearance
The defender's glove back naturally clears the forehead during the parry motion. Proper hand positioning ensures the guard adequately protects the target area while maintaining blade control through the parrying action.
Timing Requirements for Reactive Parries
Reactive parries demand early initiation by the defender to successfully intercept the opponent's attack. The reactive sixte parry must begin with movement of the blade's forte, making it time-intensive. Delayed initiation of this parry type results in failed defensive coverage.
Speed Advantage of Ceding Parry
The ceding parry requires only a wrist modification, allowing it to execute later in the opponent's attack sequence. Because the ceding parry originates from the guard on the same side rather than the blade's point, it requires less total distance and time to complete. This timing advantage allows successful parries against faster attacks.
Blade Initiation Points
The reactive sixte parry initiates movement from both the blade's point and forte simultaneously. Conversely, the ceding parry starts from the guard rather than the blade's point. This fundamental difference in initiation directly impacts execution speed and defensive effectiveness.
Directional Mechanics and Same-Side Execution
The ceding parry always occurs on the same side from which the opponent's attack originates. If an opponent attacks from the right side, the defender executes the ceding parry on their own right side. This contrasts with reactive parries like sixte, which may occur on the opposite side from the incoming attack.
Application in Octave Position
When the opponent attacks in octave, the reactive sixte parry would move the blade across to octave position. The ceding parry in this situation executes on the same side in the final moment of the attack. This same-side principle maintains consistency across different attacking positions.
#21 Ceding Parry in epee
Key Takeaways
- •Ceding Parry vs. Reactive Parry Mechanics
- •Ceding Parry Technical Execution
- •Guard Position and Hand Clearance
- •Timing Requirements for Reactive Parries
Delivered as part of the FIE Epee Coaching Academy in Budapest from Hungarian coach educator, Bela Kopetka. They aim to help novice fencing coaches to teach the fundamentals of fencing footwork and epee technique. N.B. Always follow safety guidelines when replicating any activity Follow Coach Speedy YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Bethspeedy For more fencing training information, check out - https://fencing2home.teamapp.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FENCINGatHOME Twitter - @bd4fencing / @streetswords Instagram - bethspeedy / onguardsister #FIEcoachacademy #Fencing
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about epee parry?
This video covers ceding parry vs. reactive parry mechanics, ceding parry technical execution, guard position and hand clearance. It provides detailed instruction from Beth Speedy.
How long does it take to learn epee parry?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing epee parry?
The ceding parry always occurs on the same side from which the opponent's attack originates. If an opponent attacks from the right side, the defender executes the ceding parry on their own right side. This contrasts with reactive parries like sixte, which may occur on the opposite side from the incoming attack.
