How long are group instruction classes at The Fencing Academy of Philadelphia?

Beginner classes are 1 hour, Intermediate classes 1.5 hours and Novice & Higher classes are 2 hours.

Which Fencing group do I belong in?

In the Fencing Academy of Philadelphia program, Youth is 8-12 years of age, Cadet is 13-16 and anyone 17+ should do adult classes.

What do I need for a beginner's fencing class?

You should wear sport clothing that you can move and get sweaty in with lace up or Velcro sneakers. No sandals of any kind, including Crocs or "sport" sandals are allowed. Shirts must be short sleeved or longer. No tank tops are allowed. Bring a water bottle. Equipment is provided for Beginners. -Intermediate classes need: glove, mask, French grip practice foil, carry bag. -Novice classes need: complete uniform jacket, plastron, knickers (pants), chest protection for women -Electric/Competitive classes need: personal electronic scoring equipment appropriate to your weapon

Where can I get Fencing equipment?

You can get equipment from the Fencing Academy of Philadelphia pro shop or an online vendor.

Can I just come and fence at The Fencing Academy of Philadelphia?

Already a fencer with your own equipment? We offer fencing only memberships for College students and adults which include a discount on private lessons. We also have a drop- in floor fee. For adults $25 and students $20 to come and fence for an evening.

I already have some experience with Fencing, but what if I want to do group training at The Fencing Academy of Philadelphia?

Already a fencer with your own equipment? We offer fencing only memberships for College students and adults which include a discount on private lessons. We also have a drop- in floor fee. For adults $25 and students $20 to come and fence for an evening.

Can I take private Fencing lessons to start with?

You can, but we strongly discourage this for beginners. It is more fun to learn with classmates and imperfect partners present their own unique challenges, so it is important to practice with many kinds of opponents, who will often react unexpectedly

How often should I attend Fencing lessons?

You should attend class at least twice a week. Classes at each of our main locations are offered 3x weekly. Attend as much as you can - you have to not just learn skills, but practice them! After all, just because you know how to do something does not mean that you are any good at it.

What is the situation on Fencing refunds/makeups at The Fencing Academy of Philadelphia?

There are no refunds or makeups. Classes are offered multiple days at multiple locations for your convenience.

When can I start competing in Fencing?

You should begin competing when you finish the Novice course and have your own scoring equipment.

Where are Fencing competitions held in Philadelphia?

FAP hosts a tournament almost every weekend, excepting weekends when National tournaments are scheduled. Local, Division level events are hosted by fencing clubs belonging to Philadelphia Division of USA Fencing. Regional and National tournaments are generally held at convention centers.

How old are the fencers at The Fencing Academy of Philadelphia?

You are never too old to learn fencing. Although we have classes for children, we also have a very active adult program for both post college and for older adults.

Is fencing an NCAA sport?

Yes, NCAA fencing exists at many Universities. Where there is no varsity program, there is often a fencing club.

Is Fencing in the Olympics?

Fencing is one of five sports that has always been in the Olympic program.

Where can I watch Fencing?

You can watch fencing at your local fencing club, or on YouTube or the FIE Channel (Federation Internationale Escrime).

General Information

All members must maintain a current USA Fencing Membership, competitive or non-competitive, in order to participate in Academy programming.

Beginner Fencing Session

Take our beginner fencing session, which is the start of your journey from beginner to world champion! In our beginner package, we offer this special reduced rate to encourage completely new beginners to try the sport of fencing. With this package, you can attend up to three one-hour classes per week at any of our FAP locations. All necessary training equipment is included at no additional cost. This package takes an individual through all of the basics of fencing, with instruction of preparatory footwork, arm work, beginner strategies, and more!

Fencing Training Membership

This package is for individuals who have graduated from our beginner session and are on the path to bouting, focusing on footwork and bladework skills. During your training, you will learn the rules of competition and improve upon your foundation with further techniques and tactics. This package includes three classes per week at any FAP location, and extended class times of 1.5-2 hours depending on the exact training level. Membership options include a 2-month contract or an annual contract. With an annual contract, you will be gifted a free mask, glove, weapon, and bag. Annual memberships will be billed monthly.

Competitor Membership

This membership is for individuals who have begun training for the competition level. This package includes group instruction three times a week for 2-hour sessions, in addition to a 10-minute private/semi-private lesson with a coach once a week during class time. Once an individual starts competing, this weekly individual instruction guides fencers to success at a higher level. Individuals at this level are typically competing in local and regional tournaments. Annual memberships will be billed monthly

Elite Membership

This membership is for individuals who are looking to compete at the national, international and collegiate levels. This package includes unlimited group classes per week, as well as two 20-minute private/semi-private lessons with a coach per week. Furthermore, an elite membership includes free bag storage at FAP and personalized training direction. In order to participate at the elite membership level, individuals will be evaluated by a coach and personally invited to join. Annual memberships will be billed monthly.

Special Parent Membership!

Have you ever watched your child fence and thought to yourself, “I could do that!” Well, now is your chance to try! This special rate is exclusively for parents of current or recent FAP athletes. With this membership, parents can attend up to two adult classes per week, and have access to the FAP gym space (weights, cardio equipment, etc.) during their child’s class time. Space is limited for this membership and will be given on a first come, first served basis. We will have a running wait list, and accept new members as spots become available.

Additional Information

Open bouting memberships, private lessons, and tournament coaching available upon request.

Fencing Academy of Philadelphia

Beginner to World Champion since 1989!