What is NJFA?
New Jersey Fencing Alliance is a non-profit fencing club which offers a broad range of classes which teach the fundamentals of fencing including footwork, blade work and strategy.
Classes progress from a basic introduction course through advanced competition. We welcome anyone who wants to come down and watch this fascinating sport!
Anyone, of any age and at any level of fitness can explore one of the worlds oldest sports.
Physical conditioning, mental discipline, self respect and respect for others are the primary goals in developing the wonderful skills of fencing. By starting at a young age, youngsters are encouraged to do their best, not only to learn a lifetime sport, but to set the patterns for success that will be with them throughout their formative years and into adulthood. Their passion for the sport and their discipline to push themselves will determine what they gain.
Fencing by definition is : "The art of skillfully using a sword or foil in attack or defense." Webster's definition, at best, is a sententious one for such an exhilarating game. Fencing is still referred to as an "Art". Yes, it is an art, but the sport of fencing is a martial art, not an art form.
Although one may say that "there is an art to fencing well," the sport of fencing is a demanding personal combat sport. Not a game of jab and stab. Good fencing is an exciting science. It is an excellent physical exercise that accomodates boys and girls and adults of all ages. A study of fencing by the former Soviet Union states "Fencing is the best sport for women." An excellent physical and mental exercise, fencing seeks out all the physical attributes of the composite athlete. The player, who is competitive and who aspires to reach the heights of greatness, will find that they must have the endurance of the gymnast, the heart and lungs of the swimmer and the courage of the boxer. The control of the blade must be with the swiftness and precision of the skilled surgeon, tempered with the patience of the chess player. The far reaching aesthetic values attributable to the game of fencing cannot be easily categorized, as the values are the personal feelings of the individuals.
The values of the exercise, mentally and physically, that one derives through the sport of fencing, has long been applauded by World Sports Medicine and the American Medical Association... justifiably so. Fencing has had its senior citizens in competition for many, many years before other sports. The age span in fencing is wonderful in itself... from the bright young age of five to eighty, the game goes on. It is not uncommon to find that most fencing masters teach actively, and on a one to one basis, into their eighties and nineties... and still creating champions!
Guests Welcome!
We have experienced professional, coaches teaching fencing in one of the nations largest fully equipped fencing facilities. NJFA offers 25 fencing strips, 18 of which are grounded. All strips have overhead machines, as well as repeater lights at both ends. Ther are two observation locales where parents and friends can watch their fencer in action, or read and just relax.
We want you to come and take a look at this fun and exciting sport. In fact, we know you will enjoy it so much, that we offer a FREE class for first time athletes to come and fence with us. We will even provide all the equipment! Just show up and have the time of your life!