Fencing isn’t just for posh boys – it can take you to the Olympics

I’m an award winning fencer and I’m here to tell you that it’s not just playing with sticks.

When I tell people I fence they often snigger and make a joke about me helping them put up a trellis. Not that I mind: I’ve won the Junior Commonwealth Games, travelled the world and met amazing people in amazing places because of the sport.

Photo credit: Toby Blench

When people tell me I don’t do a real sport I’m not so fussed: I’m the one going to the Olympics not them.

What upsets me when people dismiss fencing is they’re closing themselves off to something that’s brought me so much joy. Whether because they think it’s nerdy, or that it’s just for public school boys people decide not to fence and I don’t get it.

So why try it out? Well: You get to play with swords. You literally get given a sword to play with.

On top of that you burn about 700 calories each training session which is basically 7 KitKats. It checks all the fitness boxes: your balance, your core, leg and shoulder strength, and your aerobic capacity.

But these aren’t the reasons why you should do it. Do it because you will feel incredible. As unlikely as it sounds, dressed in a ridiculous white outfit and drenched in sweat is the happiest I ever am. So if you’re looking to expand your mind and shrink your waist, maybe give something new a try this weekend.