Dubai schoolgirls find challenge in fencing

Fencing is a combat sport that uses bladed swords; however, beginners and youngsters often use plastic swords for practice.

Who says the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is all about walking, jogging or running? Schoolgirls are getting creative with the challenge and have taken on fencing to get active.
Fencing is a combat sport that uses bladed swords; however, beginners and youngsters often use plastic swords for practice.
Fatma Alshahi, a Year 7 student at Gems Al Barsha National School for Girls, said fencing could help keep players fit as it requires a lot of movement, technique and high stamina.
"Fencing is fun and entertaining. It keeps you fit and is also a good stretching technique. Becoming creative for the challenge helps you participate in different kinds of sports and also allows many other schools to participate with you," she said.
Alshahi's peer, Jana Hazem, also fences and said she accepted the challenge just so she could continue fencing regularly this month.
"Fencing helps with flexibility and helps you become strong," Hazem said. "It's fun and can help us reach our goals for the fitness month."
Another student, Amna Buadeel, has been fencing for the entire first term at her school. "It boosts your energy and helps you gain muscles," she said.
The school had invited the director-general of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dr Abdulla Al Karam, for a duel this week.
"It's all about having fun and encouraging our school community to get moving as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. We've witnessed lots of new and innovative fitness-themed activities throughout the month, and the fencing experience at Gems Al Barsha National School was a fun way to involve students and staff in the challenge," Dr Al Karam said.
Schools and universities around Dubai have been getting creative in this DFC edition. While this Al Barsha school focused on fencing, Amity University had a polo match, one school did a rapid cooking class to test fitness, and another carried out dance sessions.
Michelle Forbes, principal and CEO of Gems Al Barsha National School for Girls, said: "Fencing is a great exercise for our girls. With its complex physical manoeuvres, the sport helps develop strength, flexibility and coordination and is proven to improve agility, alertness and endurance. "
sarwat@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Dubai