Multiply Your Parries: Parries vs Blocking | Fencing Tutorial [Movement Style] (Foil, Epee, Saber)

Overview:

In this video we cover the difference between a parry and a block, using some examples from the senior circuit. This is the first part in a defense series about how and when to use different defensive options. We also cover a weird drill that will help you practice controlling the opponent's blade with angles, by moving your tip independently of your hand.

Parry vs Blocking
If we look at fencing as Rock, Paper, Scissors, each of these options results in a point. Therefore, a parry must result in a riposte (with the intention to score). If one blocks with the blade to prioritize safety, it is just that - a block. If one runs away using distance to stay safe; again, it's a block. However, if one uses blade contact to then riposte, it is a parry. Similarly, if one moves away only with one's feet, to immediately riposte, it is a perfect parry (as the riposte uses the fewest tempos). Please refer to the examples above of Itkin and Baldini, both masters of defense, who use blocks to gauge the opponents' striking distance, followed by parries to punish the opponents' next attack.

Please note, while there are technical terms for the strong and weak parts of one's blade (forte = strong part at the bottom third of the blade, foible = weak part at the top third), we like to keep explanations simple.


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