FORT BLISS, Texas - Normally parents don’t let their children play with sharp objects, but here at Fort Bliss, Texas, parents enroll their children in fencing classes to focus their minds and bodies in a healthy activity.
Children at Fort Bliss learn about the sport of fencing two days a week at Building 131. They learn Olympic fencing using a sword called foil which is a basic fencing weapon.
“Fencing is a great physical activity for the children, it stimulates the mind and body,” said Margaret De Long, fencing instructor, U.S. Army Child, Youth and School Services. “It is like playing chess with your body because it is very challenging.”
With consistent participation children will improve their flexibility, balance, concentration and eye-hand coordination, said De Long.
The students not only exercise their mind, they also burn off energy from the fencing drills.
“I sweated through my shirt because of all the exercises and equipment, said Shaun Mattos, a 10-year-old fencing student. “It is really hot but the fun outweighs the hotness and the most fun part is being able to use the swords.”
Fencing is a very disciplined sport where the body and mind have to stay focused at all times, said De Long. The classes provide an opportunity for the entire family to participate in a sport together.
"I have twins and I have been looking for an activity they can both do at the same time,” said Amie Mattos, military spouse. “This is the first sport the twins have actually stayed with.”
For families looking for a challenging sport and an extraordinary way of keeping fit, fencing could be a possibility.
“We were looking for something different for the kids to do,” said Tracy Morris, military spouse. “The kids were excited about fencing and after the first class they were hooked.”
Many students share what they have learned with other family members at home.
“Me and my sister are teaching my mom how to fence at home by using balloon swords to practice,” said Shaun.
Come and join the sport, you have to give it a try, said De Long. You have to hold a sword and pop somebody.
Classes are held Tuesday and Thursday and cost $60 per month. For more information call SKIES at 915-568-8336 or 915-569-7732 or register online at www.blissmwr.com/skies.
| Date Taken: |
05.01.2013 |
| Date Posted: |
05.01.2013 18:50 |
| Story ID: |
106164 |
| Location: |
FORT BLISS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: |
102 |
| Downloads: |
0 |
PUBLIC DOMAIN
This work, A sport to keep the mind and body fit, by SSG Kenneth Pawlak, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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