Recommend me a fencing style/weapon, please?

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Since it's the only sport I might remotely consider doing (not like I hate sport per se, I just can't stay focused on it - I need to move on and do something mental, even diversion, or even physical, but in the latter case some work) because of my historical and other inclinations, I'd like to ask those of you who have practised fencing to recommend me something.

As for my physical circumstances, I'm 6'5'' tall, so a foil would be a joke in my hands and an epee would feel a bit like a knitting stick. Sabre is quite the national thing here, but I've never swung any. I guess I would be partial to mediaeval longsword reconstructions or renaissance fencing with something heavy enough to feel it. I respect katanas, but if I had to use one in actual combat, I would try European style on it, a bit like I take a little from the Japanese hold when dealing with longswords (less tight grisp than the orthodox and all). I have asthma, so I'd rather do something energy-saving if possible (rapiers should be fine for that, though I normally prefer something that cuts) and it always comes out like that when I try (that is, either that or I throw it all on the guy and face the strain, then can't move my arms for three days ). Most of all, I want some fun and I'm not really into going anywhere, representing anyone or anything, wearing tight clothes (eeek!) or anything such. But I don't want to wear an iron pot on my head and get whacked over it mediaeval-style. What would you suggest then?

[ January 24, 2007, 01:29: Message edited by: chevalier ]

 

Actually, the best epee'ist (sp?) are very tall, its an advatage due to the longer arm length usually associated with it, meaning if someone tries to stab you anywhere, you hit first. Epee is a fun wepon, and even tho foil is my main wepon im considering changing because i find epee comes far more naturally to me.

My fencing club actually has a Polish Epee'ist that just joined last year, and she is by far the best epee'ist in our club. That might be due to the fact shes left-handed and no one is used to fencing that, but still, she kicks ass.

So, thats my advice, hope it helps.

 

I find Epee's to be the most fun, though Sabre is faster paced (though hits are restricted to the upper body).

Maybe you have 'classical style' fencing societies in Poland? Classical style is more realistic as you try to avoid hits as much as possible, unlike Olympic style fencing where you will take a hit if it enables you to achieve a better score

Japanese fencing sounds fun as you wear full body armour and hit hard.