John Smith, the organiser at Reading Fencing Club, extends a warm invitation to the sports community. Located in Reading, UK, the club stands as one of the largest in the country, welcoming fencers of all levels, from beginners to GB Internationals. John takes pride in the club’s inclusive and friendly environment, ideal for those seeking both fun and exercise outside a traditional gym setting.
John has organised a variety of activities throughout the week. On Mondays and Wednesdays, sessions are held at Way Hall, featuring junior sessions, open club nights, group lessons, and footwork classes. These give members the chance to hone their skills, learn from seasoned coaches, and engage in friendly competitions. For those looking to further improve, one-to-one training with dedicated coaches is available at an additional cost.
For newcomers, John offers beginner courses open to all ages starting from 9 years old. These courses consist of ten structured lessons over ten weeks and conclude with the Grade 1 Assessment. Covering everything from the basics of fencing to advanced techniques and sports psychology, these courses are an excellent way to start. Upon completion, participants are encouraged to join as full members and enjoy regular coaching sessions, free junior sessions, and footwork classes.
To support the club’s sustainability, John and the committee have recently updated the subscription fees effective from 1 January 2024. The current rates are: Adults – £26 per month, Under 18s – £26 per month, Students/Services – £21 per month, Over 60s – £21 per month, and Family – one member pays the higher fee, with additional family members adding £5 each. John believes these rates offer excellent value compared to other clubs in the region and should help avoid further increases in the near future.
The club meets twice a week all year round at Blue Coats School in Reading, providing ample opportunity for members to train and participate in activities. Wednesdays are the primary club nights, with around 12 pistes for adults and 2 for juniors. John has arranged for one-to-one lessons with experienced coaches and has secured partnerships with fencing businesses like PBT, giving members access to discounted equipment. Monthly competitions are also organised, offering a competitive environment to fencers.
Additionally, John ensures the club regularly attends various junior and senior level competitions across the country.
The dedicated coaches and staff at Reading Fencing Club, many of whom are ex-international fencers, contribute to its reputation as the best in the region. They bring extensive knowledge and experience, making the club a nurturing ground for fencers.
John highlights the numerous health benefits of fencing, encouraging people of all ages to take up the sport. Fencing improves lower body strength, speed, hand-eye coordination, agility, and flexibility, drawing on a collection of skills akin to martial arts.
Situated at Reading Blue Coat School in Sonning on Thames, Berkshire, the club offers a convenient and well-equipped venue for all activities. Over the years, under John’s guidance and development by BigSoft Limited, Reading Fencing Club has seen continual growth in both membership and reputation.
For further information about joining or learning more about Reading Fencing Club, John invites you to visit the club's website, which contains detailed information, club documents, and contact details.