When fencing choose the rapier for a quick attack. Wait a second at the start of a bout until fencers cross swords. If your opponent draws his sword back at waist height blade pointing towards you (thrust), then parry, and counter attack with your own thrust. Opponents sword held high on his right hand side will be a chop, duck, then counter attack. Opponents sword held high on his left hand side (arm across the body) will be a slash, jump, then counter attack. Look out, its easy to confuse the slash and chop.