Frequently Asked Questions
What do I wear to class?
You should wear a comfortable t-shirt, a long athletic pants (thick sweat pants are ideal), and athletic shoes. The Denver Fencing Center does have a changing room and 5 bathrooms to make clothing changes.
How old does my child need to be to start fencing?
We generally recommend that your child start around age 8 for our youth classes. Usually at this age, they are able to get into winter clothing (similar to the fencing gear) by themselves, coordinate their hands and their feet together, and have the concentration to attend a 60- or 90-minute class.
In USA Fencing sanctioned competitions, the youngest age group is for 8-10 year old fencers.
If you would like your child to start earlier, you should try our Little Fencers for kids ages 5 to 8. This class is designed for young kids to try out the sport in a supportive environment.
What if the online registration system is not working?
Just give us a call at (303) 922-7288 or drop by the club. We can assist you with technical difficulties or take your registration over the phone. You can also email frontdesk@denverfencingcenter.com
What is your refund policy?
Denver Fencing Center will give a refund prior to the start of the class if you are unable to attend. Once a class session has started at the beginning of the month, you will receive credit for a later session. No refund will be given after the class session starts. If we have to cancel a class, we will provide a refund or alternate date for the classes cancelled.
What is your make-up policy?
For group classes: If you miss a class, we allow you to make it up by taking a similar class during the same month.
For private lessons: You must notify us at least 24 hours in advance of your lesson that you will be absent. If you give us this notice, you will be eligible to reschedule your lesson. Lessons must be made up within the same calendar month. If you do not give us adequate notice, you forfeit your right to schedule the make up lesson.
How much does it cost to purchase my own equipment?
The equipment, depending on the weapon, will run from $250 to $500. We rent the equipment so people can try out the sport for a significant amount of time before outlaying the investment. We find that many parents appreciate the option of renting till their child is one hundred percent vested in the sport. Denver Fencing Center has a on site store for all of your equipment needs.
What is the cost for weekly classes?
A Bronze membership covers one 60-minute class per week or one 90-minute class per week, and costs $115 per month.
Anyone attending weekly practice at DFC will have a monthly membership. To find the plan that’s right for you, visit our memberships page. Additionally, new members or members who do not have a current USA Fencing membership will be charged a $15 sign-up fee.
Do you do birthday parties?
Yes we do! Fencing can be a great way to celebrate your birthday. We usually are available on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons to hold birthday parties. If you would like to hold a birthday party at Denver Fencing Center, please give us a call at (303) 922-7288.
Event fees start at $30/participant and will vary depending on length of time and number of participants. This price includes equipment rental. A party requires a minimum of four fencers.
Do you do corporate events?
Yes! Fencing is a great team-building exercise. Who would not want to chase their boss around with a sword?
We usually are available on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons to hold corporate events. If you would like to hold a corporate event at Denver Fencing Center, please give us a call at (303) 922-7288. Event fees start at $30/participant and will vary depending on length of time and number of participants. This price includes equipment rental. An event requires a minimum of four fencers. We usually max out at 16 fencers. Please contact us to schedule the date and time.
What are your drop-in fees?
The drop-in fee for open fencing is $25. The drop-in fee for a private lesson is $50. The drop-in fee for group classes is $35. You can pay for your drop-in when you arrive at our facility.
What are your facilities like?
The Denver Fencing Center is a 15,000 square foot facility dedicated to the sport of fencing. Our stage step floor is same flooring used by dance studios and is designed for maximum support. We have fifteen full regulation electric fencing strips and a video replay system to analyze bouts. At any given time, we can have 38 fencers fencing simultaneously. We have on-site parking and a lounge area.
What precautions are taken to ensure safety?
The safety of our fencers is our primary concern. DFC requires all fencers to wear the equipment required by USA Fencing during practice. This includes long pants for all participants, underarm protector, and fencing masks during all training sessions.
Additionally, DFC regularly checks our rental equipment for quality. This includes conducting punch tests on all rental masks, as well as checking jackets and gloves for holes. We have a washing machine onsite to do all our frequent washing of fencing clothing.
Can I wear glasses while I fence?
Many of our fencers wear glasses under their fencing mask. Glasses frames should fit under the fencing mask.
Is there a particular age/size/fitness level that is best for fencing?
Unlike most other sports, there is no ideal body type for a fencer. When you come to the Denver Fencing Center and look around at our members, they are all different ages, sizes, and body types. Successful fencers will find a way to win no matter their body type.
Here at the Denver Fencing Center we train each fencer with techniques to complement their strengths and supplement their weaknesses. Ultimately, if you stick with fencing, you will find a way to make your body type work to your advantage.
Is there a time I can come and tour your facility?
You are welcome to tour our facilities during normal business hours: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Monday-Thursday, or 8:30 AM-12:30 PM on Saturday.
You can also set up a tour outside of these hours by calling (303) 922-7288.