the slow blade penetrates the shield

Tonight I think I had a breakthrough.

It was about the hardest workout I've had at this club yet. LOTS of drilling: footwork, lunges, bladework, distance. Main takeaway notes to self:

• Knock off the advance-advance-advance-sorta lunge - these fencers WILL back up and you'll tire yourself out chasing them unsuccessfully down the strip. Lunge properly, once, from distance!
  
• Do the advance-retreat dance until you're within measure. Even if it tires you out, be patient and keep dancing until you're in range.
  
• Parry, dammit!
  

I think I'm going to go to bed now.