Development of Reaction Speed in Fencing: Literature Review and Future Agenda

The sport of fencing is fast, athletic, and psychologically very complex. In fencing, the fencer’s success and achievement depend on various factors. In addition to technical and tactical training, the main success factors are aerobic and anaerobic capacity, speed, reaction speed, endurance, agility, flexibility, and coordination skills. In biathlete sports, one must react within the shortest time possible because the combat technique involves attack and defence moves throughout. Reaction speed, which is one of the aspects determining speed overall, became one of the main factors in achieving athletic success in fencing. The ability to influence reaction speed is very complex, and scholars have announced several discoveries on the development of reaction time. The aim of this study is to analyse scientific literature to find an effective training method for developing reaction speed in fencing. It was decided to use the Google Scholar database to find original studies in the English language with a focus on the development of reaction speed in fencing. Seven scientific articles were included in this study. Scientific studies on the development of reaction speed show that systematic and continuous training from 6 weeks to 3 years in duration improves the fencer’s reaction speed. The exercises were selected in line with the peculiarities of fencing and general physical training, hitting the fencing target using visual signals and using exercises for reaction speed, changing direction, speed, and explosiveness. Training to develop reactions should constitute an integral part of fencing training programmes for both children and adults who are proficient fencers. Further studies are needed on employing new training methods and tools in the development of reaction speed.