Customer Reviews

Understanding Fencing

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This is a very in-depth look into fencing terminology, actions, and the teaching/coaching of fencing. It is not a light, easy read. I read the book during a week+ coaching clinic with Professor Czajkowski, and I've gone back to it over and over again as I've developed my own program, fencers, and assistant coaches. Absorbing the simple concepts he spells out and expounds on have had profound effects on my teaching and coaching abilities. Some of the highlights for me were:

"Motivation and Arousal in Fencing" - understanding the importance of emotional equilibrium in fencing, and helping the fencer become aware of it, and how to maintain it

"Types of Fencers: Warriors and Technicians" - understanding the personality types of fencers, and how to use the fencer's personality to help him develop and achieve

The book discusses some of the science of physical education - helping the fencing coach look beyond the bladework and footwork and see what is going on underneath the hood (so to speak) with the fencer - how does the fencer formulate his mental and physical reactions? How can the coach enhance/develop/focus those reactions and decision trees? In addition to higher-level physical education material is the nitty-gritty of the individual lesson (3 whole chapters just to that) and developing the training plan for one's athletes.

This is not a light "learn how to teach fencing" manual, but is a necessary read for anyone that wants to get beyond light, recreational teaching of fencing and become a serious professional.