Mastering the Parry in Fencing

So, you’re into fencing and want to master the parry? Awesome choice! The parry is like your secret weapon for blocking attacks and staying in control during a match. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of parrying, share some easy tips, and help you get better at this essential skill.

“These techniques can be used in the three main fencing disciplines: foil, epee, and sabre .”

What is a Parry in Fencing?

A parry in fencing is a defensive move where you use your sword to block or deflect your opponent’s attack. It’s a crucial skill that helps protect you from being hit while setting you up for a counterattack right after, known as riposte.

When Should You Parry?

You should parry when your opponent’s attack is coming directly at you and you can’t evade it. By parrying, you disrupt their attack and gain a moment to plan your next move, keeping you in control of the bout.

Types of Parries

1. Parry 1 (Prime), a low parry that deflects attacks aimed at the low inside line (the area to the fencer’s left if right-handed, or to the right if left-handed).
2. Parry 2 (Seconde), a low parry that blocks attacks aimed at the low outside line (the area to the fencer’s right if right-handed, or to the left if left-handed).
3. Parry 3 (Tierce), a high parry that protects the high outside line. It’s effective against attacks aimed at the shoulder or upper torso.
4. Parry 4 (Quarte), a high parry that covers the high inside line, typically used to defend against attacks to the chest or upper inside line.
5. Parry 5 (Quinte), a parry that can be high or low, typically used to protect the head (high 5) or the belly (low 5).
6. Parry 6 (Sixte), similar to Parry 3, but more angled to cover attacks coming to the upper outside line.
7. Parry 7 (Septime), a low parry that covers the low inside line, particularly effective against attacks to the lower torso or thigh.
8. Parry 8 (Octave), a low parry that deflects attacks aimed at the low outside line, protecting the lower torso and legs.
9. Circular Parry, this involves moving the blade in a circular motion to catch and deflect the opponent’s blade. Circular parries can be performed in any line.

These are all essential parries, but the most important and commonly used in fencing are Parry 4 (Quarte) ,Parry 6 (Sixte),Parry 7 (Septime),Parry 8 (Octave).

Mastering the Parry

Position Yourself. Stand in the en garde position with your knees slightly bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and your sword hand in front of you. Ensure your non-dominant hand is tucked behind you for balance.

Keep your eyes on your opponent and anticipate their move. Look for cues in their body language and blade direction.

Align your blade to intercept the opponent’s attack. Move your sword to the correct parry position, whether it’s inside, outside, high, or low.

Use a small, controlled motion to deflect your opponent’s blade away from your target area. The motion should be smooth and minimal, just enough to change the direction of the attack.

Try to keep balance and your movements tight to avoid exposing yourself to further attacks. Your feet should remain in the en garde position for quick recovery or counterattack.

After successfully parrying, seize the opportunity to counterattack while your opponent is off balance or exposed.

If you execute and learn these steps correctly, you’ll significantly improve your defensive skills in fencing. Mastering the parry will not only help you block attacks effectively but also create opportunities for successful counterattacks, giving you a strategic edge in your bouts.

Common Mistakes in Parrying

Try not to make these mistakes in your parries:

Using too much force or making large movements, which can leave you off-balance and vulnerable to a follow-up attack.

Parrying too early or too late, which can result in missing the opponent’s blade or being hit before you can block.

Not aligning the blade properly to effectively deflect the opponent’s attack, leading to unsuccessful parries.

Failing to return to the en garde position quickly after a parry, which can leave you open to further attacks.

Over-relying on parries without integrating other defensive maneuvers like footwork or counterattacks can make your defense predictable.

Not practicing parries regularly, which can result in poor muscle memory and slower reaction times during a bout.