Six Weeks. Twelve Sessions. One Decision.
By Session 12, you will fence a competitive bout. That is the Challenge. A structured curriculum that takes you from first grip to real competition - with expert coaching, all equipment, and a clear answer about whether fencing belongs in your life. This is not a trial. It is six weeks of real fencing so your decision is based on experience, not guesswork.
All equipment provided. No experience necessary. All experience levels.
What is the Six-Week Fencing Challenge at NCF Boulder?
The Six-Week Fencing Challenge is NCF Boulder's structured introduction program: 12 coached sessions over six weeks for $368 (just over $30 per session), with all club equipment included. Sessions cover epee fundamentals - footwork, blade work, bouting basics - and prepare new fencers to transition into the youth or adult tier ladder afterward. Ages 7 and up.
The program is designed as a real decision window rather than a trial: by Session 12 you fence a competitive bout, you have run a coach-assessment checkpoint at Session 8, and you have attended a round-robin mini-tournament in Week 5. Complete the Challenge and your investment applies to future training, so the $368 is not stranded if you continue with a tier membership.
Why "Just Signing Up" for Fencing Does Not Work
Most people who try fencing take a single lesson, feel awkward holding a weapon for the first time, and never come back. Not because fencing was wrong for them - but because one session is not enough to experience what makes this sport different.
Fencing is a strategic sport. The reward is not in the first touch - it is in the moment you read your opponent's intention before they act. That takes more than sixty minutes. It takes structured progression, guided practice, and enough time to get past the awkward stage into the part where it clicks.
The Six-Week Challenge exists because we believe the right amount of time to decide about fencing is six weeks, not one hour. Enough time to learn real skills. Enough time to compete. Enough time to know. And because you have invested in the decision, you will show up. That is the point.
Everything You Need. Nothing You Do Not.
12 coached sessions over 6 weeks. A complete curriculum with nationally recognized coaching.
12 Coached Sessions
2x per week for 6 weeks
All Equipment Provided
Mask, jacket, glove, weapon
Week-by-Week Curriculum
From first grip to competitive bout
Coach Assessment at Session 8
Honest evaluation of your progress
Mini-Tournament in Week 5
Real competition with your cohort
Challenge Fee Credits Toward Membership
Complete the Challenge, and it applies to future training
The Journey: Week by Week
A structured curriculum. Defined milestones. Real competitive experience by Week 5.
First Grip to First Footwork
- ✓ Proper grip, stance, and movement
- ✓ Equipment familiarization and safety
- ✓ Introduction to the strategic mindset
- ✓ First blade contact with a partner
Attack, Defense, and the Tactical Conversation
- ✓ Attack and defense fundamentals
- ✓ Your first competitive exchanges
- ✓ Developing your personal fencing style
- ✓ Session 8: Coach assessment checkpoint
Mini-Tournament and Your Decision
- ✓ Round-robin mini-tournament
- ✓ Real scores against real opponents
- ✓ Graduation and recognition
- ✓ Transition guidance and next steps
Who the Challenge Is For
No experience necessary. No special equipment to buy.
- ✓ Kids curious about an individual sport
- ✓ Children who think strategically and love puzzles
- ✓ Families who want a structured way to evaluate fit
- ✓ Professionals seeking a workout that challenges both body and mind
- ✓ Adults who always wanted to try fencing
- ✓ Anyone looking for stress relief beyond the gym
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring?
Sneakers and comfortable clothes. We provide everything else - mask, jacket, glove, weapon.
Is this for kids or adults?
Both. The Six-Week Challenge is designed for ages 7 and up, including adults. Youth and adult cohorts may run at different times but follow the same curriculum.
What happens after the 6 weeks?
Your coach helps you decide what comes next. Most participants transition into a membership tier that matches their goals. Complete the Challenge, and your investment applies to future training. You have 30 days after graduation to decide without losing what you have already put in.
Why does the Challenge cost $368?
Because a real decision requires real commitment. The $368 covers 12 coached sessions with nationally recognized instruction, all equipment, and a structured curriculum - just over $30 per session. Complete the Challenge, and your investment applies to future training. You are not paying for a trial. You are investing in enough time and training to make an informed decision about fencing.
Do I need to be athletic?
No. Fencing rewards strategy over strength. The physical side develops as you train. Complete beginners thrive in this program.
What if my child does not like it?
Then you know. Better to find out in a structured 6-week program than in a monthly commitment. No pressure to continue after graduation.
Reserve Your Spot
Next cohort starts soon. Spots are limited. Complete the Challenge, and your investment applies to future training. Schedule your first lesson to begin.