What Types of Fencing Does the Fencing Institute of Texas Teach?

Updated

The Fencing Institute of Texas (FIT) in Carrollton teaches foil and epee as its main competitive weapons, and also offers parafencing (listed as Adaptive Sport), Victorian historical fencing, home school programs, and off-campus PE instruction for the DFW area. If you have never fenced, the club asks you to start with a reduced-fee, 30-minute introductory lesson before joining a beginner class.

The Main Competitive Weapons: Foil and Epee

Foil and epee are the core of FIT's training, offered from recreational level through Olympic-level training. The club describes itself as a non-profit school of fencing and as the "Home of Past Olympians and Future Olympic Hopefuls," with competitive training programs and NCAA teams listed among its offerings.

For a beginner, the practical difference is that foil and epee are separate weapons with separate training tracks, so the weapon you start with shapes your classes and coaching. The club's program names are organized by age and level rather than by weapon on the homepage, so confirm weapon placement with a coach when you register.

Adaptive Sport (Parafencing)

FIT lists Adaptive Sport among its programs, which means parafencing training is available alongside able-bodied classes. The site does not publish separate scheduling, eligibility details, or equipment notes for adaptive fencing, so contact the club directly at [email protected] to ask how parafencing sessions are arranged and what to bring.

Victorian (Historical) Fencing

Victorian historical fencing is offered as a distinct program from the Olympic sport tracks. This is a good fit if your interest is historical technique and period style rather than foil/epee competition. Because it is listed as a program rather than a beginner entry point, ask the club whether prior fencing experience is expected before you sign up.

Home School Programs and Off-Campus PE

FIT runs home school programs and off-campus PE instruction for the DFW area. These are structured for students who need a physical education option outside a standard school setting. The site does not publish eligibility rules, meeting times, or whether these count toward specific district requirements, so families should confirm details with the club before enrolling.

How the Programs Fit Together

Program Who it suits What to confirm before joining
Foil and epee (recreational to Olympic) Beginners through competitive fencers Which weapon track and which age/level class
Adaptive Sport (parafencing) Fencers needing adaptive instruction Scheduling and equipment arrangements
Victorian historical fencing Fencers interested in historical style Whether experience is required
Home school / off-campus PE Home schooled students and PE credit seekers Eligibility and program structure

First Step for New Fencers

FIT recommends a reduced-fee, 30-minute introductory lesson for anyone who has never fenced; the lesson is not intended for people with prior fencing experience. Lessons are scheduled Monday at 6:00 and 6:30 pm and Saturday at 1:00 and 1:30 pm. A free USA Fencing trial membership is required, and you fill out the form and bring it to the lesson. Intro lessons can be booked now or within a 3-month period, and refunds are not given; if you cannot schedule within 3 months, email [email protected] before the intro membership ends to request an extension. Requests made after that membership cancels cannot be refunded or extended.

Once you have completed the intro lesson, the beginner track is split by age: Musketeer for ages 6–9, Bronze for ages 10–14, Silver for intermediate-to-advanced students ages 9–14, and Adult Fitness for ages 15 and up.