Modern fencing and it's deadly roots...

[shaolin kungfu]

How much of the original fencing methodology and technique can still be found in modern sport fencing? My geuss would be not too much, as the target area is limited and the compeitors are forced into linear fighting.

So, what does everyone else think?

[chen zhen]

Exactly, it's all about scoring points now, at that time, it was all about deadly serious combat.
good subject!
:)

[Former castleva]

What a BROAD question.

[chen zhen]

Like yours with western martial arts?;)

[Former castleva]

No. :)

[Christopher M]

http://www.martinez-destreza.com/fenfaq.htm

[chen zhen]

I like this passage from the site:

---

A martial art is a systematized form of personal combat for the purpose of self defense, physical fitness, mental clarity, and spiritual awareness.

It must be clearly understood that the practice of martial arts is not limited to the various styles and systems of Asian origin. Different forms of martial practices were engaged in by other countries and cultures.

There is a vast difference between the practice of a sport and a practice of a martial art. In the practice of martial arts the training is primarily geared to self-preservation in an actual combative situation. Pedagogy has been formulated to ensure that the most effective, logical, and economic techniques are taught and learned. The secondary aspects of this type of practice, the physical, mental, and spiritual areas, are different levels that arise from the training. These are then interconnected with the practice, aiding and complimenting the development of a complete martial artist to a higher level of mastery in whatever style or system.

When a martial art is turned into a sport it loses its very essence. In a sport the goal is to win at a game. The techniques that are taught and learned are geared to win the game using prescribed rules and regulations, which are subjective. The participants in the sport develop a style which is totally artificial, taking risks and attempting techniques that would not be used in a serious combative situation.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
this can be translated into all MA systems.