Los Angeles - October 09, 2006

Curses, Foiled Again

Malibu Fencing Club

If it were up to you, all disputes would be settled the old-fashioned way: with a duel.

Though, if anyone ever accepted, you’d be up a moat without a paddle.

Prepare for battle at the new Malibu Fencing Club. They offer private lessons in foil, epee, and saber fencing for all ages and levels of expertise. First-timers can show up in sweats and sneaks (no sword necessary) and suit up in on-loan gear at the center.

Once you’re feeling sufficiently en garde, fence with other students in open-floor action. You’ll conquer fancy footwork, practice ballet-like postures, and learn ways to defend or go on the attack. It’s also killer cardio workout that especially targets the lower body.

Just remember, the emphasis is on form and having fun — it’s no life-or-death competition.

Unlike those unruly thumb wars.

Those can really get ugly.

Malibu Fencing Club, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, off Civic Center Way, Malibu (818-919-1375 or malibufencingclub.com).