How to Score a Touche in Foil Fencing   Step 8: Common Mistakes
Picture of Common Mistakes As a beginner to fencing, you're not
expected to perform each round perfectly, but there are a few
common mistakes that can occur. If you want to avoid getting
into the habit of some of these common problems, please read
through the following.  1. Too much stiffness in en guarde Your
weapon hand, while in the en guarde position, shouldn't be held
too stiffly. Both your arm and wrist should be held comfortably
with a bend in the elbow. Many beginners make this mistake, and
as a result, they don't perform techniques fluidly enough and
tire faster.  2. Failing to maintain an en guarde position It is
easy to fall out of the en guarde position when moving around
your opponent, but it is essential to maintain the position,
always keeping your eyes on your opponent.  3. Turning your
front foot while lunging Maintaining the proper footwork during
your lunge is very important in order to preserve your strength
and control. Many