Fencing: Steps to Success (STS (Steps to Success Activity) Paperback – November 12, 2001

Ms. Cheris' "Fencing: Steps to Success" is a worthwhile purchase for new fencers. (My 5 star rating presumes that the reader is a novice fencer.) As a new fencer myself (1 year), I've read several books on fencing in addition to taking weekly lessons. Ms. Cheris' book provides clear, concise instructions and excellent diagrams; and includes numerous recommended drills that help beginners properly form their technique. While no substitute for lessons, the book is great as a companion to live instruction. For beginners, I strongly recommned this book over Nick Evangelista's "The Art and Science of Fencing". (Although Mr. Evangelista's book does do a better job in giving the reader the historical context of today's modern sport fencing.) "Fencing: Steps to Success" is a valuable learning aid for those new to the sport.

I'd give this book 10 stars if I could. Very very clear information, lots of drills. I'm new to fencing but have boxed and done martial arts for 40 years and this book is a TREMENDOUS resource of information. This is EXACTLY the book I wanted. It's perfect. The illustrations are clear and everything is here.

Wonderful resource! Not enough quality books on clear practical strategy & informative Fencing approaches and techniques. Purchased a second as a gift!

breaks down each move and explains exactly what each part of the body should (and should not) be doing, how your weight should be distributed, etc. also lists common mistakes made and how to avoid or fix them. best of all, it's filled with tons of drills for practice, both solo and with a partner. working my way through the book has gotten me through my first semester of fencing with excellent results. so much more helpful than any other book out there, by far.

I surprised myself winning 3rd at University of Chicago's women's foil for the State of Illinois back in the day. I was running and weight lifting my skinny body not realizing yet Kenneth Cooper was just publishing the merits of cross training and aerobics. Hence, my legs and wind (breath) were stronger, and my coach was teaching me how to watch and catch my opponent in patterns and repeat mistakes. I had strengthened my body for three months exactly as needed, and I had a good coach who guided my potential, and these girls were mean but mistook hard strikes instead of observation and finesse. I was writing about fencing recently and decided to review it by reading and watching it in the Olympics. Good to fine tune what you know.

This book has good material, but it is at an incredibly basic teaching resource. All of this material could be taught in a couple hours by a competent instructor. There is no advanced content.

I've just become interested in fencing and wanted something to "supplement" my hands-on lessons. This book is a great help in understanding the vocabulary, skills and tactics of this amazing sport. It does not take the place of hands-on training and practice, but it does provide a great, easy to follow reference.

This book is great for beginning fencers. There are plenty of drills to hone skills. Lots of pictures to illustrate techniques. We are getting plenty of use from this book.