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Fitness, strength, technique, strategy, how fencing benefits minds and bodies of all ages

  • As Hong Kong celebrates its Olympic fencing gold medals, a fencing coach explains the physical and mental benefits of practising the sport.

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With Hong Kong in the grip of fencing fever, Lau Kwok-kin, a two-time Olympian with a fencing school in the city, shares why it is good for the mind and body. Photo: Hong Kong Fencing Master

It is fair to say that Hong Kong is in the grip of fencing fever following its two gold medal wins at the Paris Olympics.

Cheung Ka-long took home gold in the final bout of the men’s individual foil in a nail-biting match against Italy’s Filippo Macchi on July 29. A few days earlier, Cheung’s teammate, Vivian Kong Man-wai, picked up gold in the women’s épée individual finals.
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The wins have thrust the sport into the public consciousness. And for good reason: fencing is a great workout for the mind and body, says Lau Kwok-kin, two-time fencing Olympian and co-founder of Hong Kong Fencing Master.

Lau speaks from decades of experience. The 47-year-old has represented Hong Kong at international level more than 70 times – including at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens and the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing – and four Asian Games, in a career spanning more than 35 years.

Hong Kong’s Vivian Kong (left) duels with France’s Auriane Mallo-Breton in the women’s épée individual gold medal match at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Photo: AFP
Hong Kong’s Vivian Kong (left) duels with France’s Auriane Mallo-Breton in the women’s épée individual gold medal match at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Photo: AFP

Fencing is a captivating sport that provides physical and mental challenges, he says, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a multifaceted approach to personal growth and wellness.

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“Whether you’re a child exploring new horizons, a teenager seeking to develop critical life skills, or an adult looking to stay active and engaged, fencing presents a unique opportunity to unlock a wealth of benefits,” Lau says.

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