Book Your First Lesson
Your first lesson is complimentary. All equipment provided. No experience necessary.
What does the first fencing lesson at NCF Boulder include?
Your first lesson at NCF Boulder is one hour with the coaching staff at our 1949 33rd Street studio. You learn epee-specific footwork and bladework, get fitted with a mask, jacket, glove, and weapon on-site, and may bout by the end. There is no charge for the introductory lesson. Wear athletic clothing and sneakers.
The lesson is taught by NCF Boulder coaches and follows the same epee-first curriculum the club has run since 1979. Head Coach Gary Copeland is the USOC Fencing Coach of the Year and remains on the strip for every practice. Group ratios stay tight - typically 1:5 coach-to-student or better - so the first lesson works as an honest evaluation of fit, not a sales pitch. After the lesson, you decide at your own pace whether to continue with the Six-Week Fencing Challenge or a tier membership.
What to Expect
Arrive in athletic clothes
Sneakers and comfortable clothing. We provide everything else.
Meet the coaches
Brief introduction and gear fitting. We'll explain the basics of epee fencing.
Learn and fence
Footwork, blade work, and (if you're ready) your first bout. About one hour total.
Decide at your own pace
No pressure. If fencing clicks, the Six-Week Challenge is the next step.
Ready to Start?
Book your complimentary first lesson. All equipment provided.
Book Your First LessonOpens TeamUp in a new tab
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the first fencing lesson at NCF Boulder include?
About one hour at our 1949 33rd Street location with the NCF Boulder coaching staff. You learn epee-specific footwork and bladework, get fitted with a mask, jacket, glove, and weapon, and may bout by the end. All equipment is provided. Wear athletic clothing and sneakers.
Do I need any equipment or experience to book?
No. NCF Boulder provides all fencing gear (mask, jacket, glove, weapon) for your first lesson. No prior experience is needed; the coaching staff teaches the fundamentals from the first minute on the strip.
What ages can book a first lesson?
Ages 7 and up. The coaching staff works with both youth fencers (typically ages 7-17) and adult beginners (18+) in separately scheduled first lessons.
Is the first lesson really complimentary?
Yes. The first lesson is offered at no charge with no obligation to enroll afterward. This is how NCF Boulder has welcomed new fencers since 1979.
What happens after my first lesson?
No pressure. If fencing clicks, the Six-Week Fencing Challenge is the structured next step: 12 sessions over six weeks for $368, with all club gear included. Your investment in the Challenge applies to future training if you continue.