FAQ for Parents New to Fencing
Welcome to Lilov Fencing Academy! We know that signing your child up for a new sport can feel overwhelming — especially one as unique as fencing. Below are answers to the questions we hear most often from parents who are just getting started. If you don’t see your question here, please feel free to email us at INFO@LFANJ.com.
Getting Started
What age can my child start fencing?
At Lilov Fencing Academy, we coach fencers from age 7 through adulthood. Children as young as 7 can begin learning the basics, but fencing is also a sport where late starters can excel — many accomplished fencers begin training in their teens and rise quickly through the ranks with dedication and proper coaching.
How does my child try fencing for the first time?
The best way to start is to register for a trial lesson. You can book a 1.5-hour group trial ($50), a 20-minute 1-on-1 private trial ($70), or both for $100. Fencing equipment is included in the trial. Please note that we do not offer trial lessons during the month of August.
What should my child wear to a trial or first lesson?
For the trial lesson, your child should wear a long-sleeve t-shirt, long pants, and gym sneakers. We provide all of the fencing equipment for trial lessons. Please plan to arrive about 10 minutes before the class begins.
Do I need to buy equipment right away?
No. The academy provides loaner equipment for trial lessons and for new fencers who are still deciding whether the sport is the right fit. When your child is ready for their own gear, we have a pro shop and armory services on site to help you choose properly fitted equipment.
About the Sport
Is fencing safe?
Yes. Fencing is widely considered one of the safest competitive sports. Fencers wear protective masks, jackets, gloves, and other gear, and the blades are flexible and designed for sport use. Lessons are run by experienced professional coaches in a safe, supervised environment.
What weapons are there, and which should my child choose?
There are three Olympic fencing weapons: foil, épée, and sabre. At LFA we focus on sabre and épée. Our coaches will help your child find the weapon that best matches their style. Visit “Choose Your Weapon” tab to see the difference.
What will my child learn besides how to fence?
Fencing teaches children valuable life skills. It requires athletes to think on their feet and adapt their strategy based on their opponent’s moves, building critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. It also develops resilience and coping mechanisms by teaching kids to remain calm and focused under pressure — qualities that carry over into school and life.
Classes, Schedule & Tuition
When are group classes held?
Sabre group lessons (1.5 hours) run on weekday evenings — beginner classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays, advanced classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — plus Saturday mornings. Épée group lessons (1.5 hours) run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays plus Saturday mornings. Private lessons are 20 minutes long, and we’ll send available time slots upon registration. For current class times, please see our full class schedule.
How often should my child practice?
Beginners typically start with one or two group classes per week. As your child progresses, they may add private lessons and additional group sessions to build technique and conditioning. Our coaches will recommend a schedule that fits your child’s level and goals. Starting with private lessons will speed up your child’s progress. Think of private lessons as piano lessons. An experienced coach will “mold your child’s hand,” convert your child’s instincts into “correct” reactions, and develop a feeling of the distance.
Are there summer camps?
Yes. LFA hosts popular youth summer camps and pre-nationals strategy and tactics camp led by our Olympian coaches. Camps are a great way to accelerate progress and build friendships within the fencing community.
Competitions & College
Will my child have to compete?
Competition is not required, but it is encouraged once your child has built the fundamentals. LFA sends fencers to compete at USA Fencing-sanctioned regional, national, and international events.
Can fencing help with college admissions?
Yes. Fencing is one of the best sports for families who want to give their children an edge in the college admissions and scholarship process. Nearly all of the top U.S. colleges have NCAA Division 1, 2, or 3 fencing programs — including Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Stanford, Columbia, Notre Dame, and many more. According to scholarshipstats.com, while only about 7.6% of boys and 7.9% of girls move from a high school sport to competing in college overall, the rate for fencers is 29.6% for boys and 38.2% for girls.
About Lilov Fencing Academy
What makes LFA different?
Lilov Fencing Academy is a family legacy spanning three generations and over 30 years of world-class coaching. Established in 1992, LFA is one of New Jersey’s oldest fencing schools and an official member club of the United States Fencing Association (USFA). Our 10,000 sq ft state-of-the-art facility features 12 competitive metal strips (21 total), permanent electric scoring with TV monitors, a pro shop, armory services, plenty of seating for parents, and a safe neighborhood with ample parking.
Can I watch my child’s lessons?
Absolutely. We provide plenty of seating for spectators and parents, free Wi-Fi, and outlets for electronics. Many parents enjoy watching practice and getting to know our coaches and the other fencing families.
How do I get in touch?
The quickest way to reach us is by email at INFO@LFANJ.com. You can also call us or visit the academy in person at 9 Sand Park Rd, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009. Stop by, bring your gear (or borrow some from the club), tour our facility, meet our staff, and chat with our fencing families. Visit and fence — you’ll love the difference!
