Surviving the dog-eat-dog world of fencing

Tip #1 - Develop a good relationship with your competitors.
The same people that you will compete against are the same individuals who you will end up traveling with to several competitions a year. It can be lonely when you are waiting for a train in Prague if the only person who speaks English is someone with whom you have a bad relationship, and who will also be your opponent.

Tip #2 - Work on your weaknesses in practice to succeed in a tournament.
The average fencer is not willing to work on his/her weaknesses in practice and is only satisfied with the short-term goals of immediate success. If you are willing to accept working on your weaknesses, and lose bouts in practice, it will help when you compete.

Tip #3 - Be a gracious loser and even a more humble winner.
 When you factor in practice, and all of the competitions that you will compete in over the course of your career, you will lose more times than you will win. If you are willing to accept a loss, and not be a sore loser, people will be willing to share advice on what you did wrong. The same goes for when you win. If your competitors know you have an ego, they will make sure your win is as difficult as possible.

Tip #4 - Be willing to sacrifice your social life for practice.
Unfortunately, fencing takes a lot out of your social life. You will probably go to competitions about once every three to four weeks, while practicing on average five times a week. Although there is little left over for a social outlet, if you remain focused on your goals, you will have plenty of time to socialize during the off-season.

Tip #5 - Develop a large amount of patience.
No matter how much you practice, you will not achieve success over night. However, if you possess patience, and are willing to work hard, success will eventually come to you.