June 2008 [11]

Counter Attack

Defintion; An attack performed after the opponent’s. (In Foil and Sabre it will not receive a point unless the opponents attack misses).

Intent: To preferably stop an attack in its tracks, thus taking over and achieving a hit.  Often in Foil and Sabre, the intent was to start first but didn’t in the referee’s opinion. In Epee a counter attack is performed to hit first as the target is closer than before.

Practice: An understanding of what is an attack is important before attempting, lunging into an attack is a practical situation, however the best scenario is that the first attack misses.  Stand just outside lunge distance with a partner and wait until the opponent starts attack, then lunge into it aiming for the chest (or weapon arm)

Tip: A fast counter attack is usually more successful, so short sharp movements directly into the chest