THE LIGHTSABER

Since April 2018, the lightsaber has been recognized as a discipline by the French Fencing Federation (FFE), under delegation of the Ministry of Sports, the Olympic and Paralympic Games. As such, the Federation organizes a French national championship every year and develops its training offer throughout France.

Lightsaber practice is inspired by the science‑fiction universe made famous by the Star Wars saga. Its main distinctive feature is its energy light blade, usually blue, green, or red, depending on the user’s affinity with “the Force” or their personal preference.

This iconic weapon offers a unique training experience, allowing practitioners to simulate impressive and spectacular duels.

To practice lightsaber fencing, it is best to join a club affiliated with the French Fencing Federation. Beginners learn the basics of handling a lightsaber, combat techniques, and choreography before progressing and developing their own style and creativity.

Instructors are specifically trained in both teaching methods and safety.

Beginners learn the basics of lightsaber handling, combat and choreography techniques, then progress to develop their style and creativity.

RULES

Lightsaber fights generally follow rules similar to artistic fencing. Lightsaber practice consists of three complementary disciplines:

Sport Combat

Fencers face each other in a regulated duel inside an arena. They must strike their opponent with their lightsaber to score points within a set time. Sport combat requires strategy, speed, and technical mastery.

Choreographed Combat

This discipline is practiced in pairs or in groups. Participants perform a staged duel that has been rehearsed beforehand, often accompanied by appropriate music. The sense of spectacle is essential, and movements must be precise and visually impressive.

Kata

Inspired by martial arts, kata consists of performing a sequence of codified movements alone or against an imaginary opponent. It aims to improve technique and requires discipline, precision, and patience.

EQUIPMENT

The Lightsaber

It consists of a flexible polycarbonate tube blade with a diameter of 2.54 cm and approximately 2 mm thickness, ending in a rounded tip and inserted into an aluminum hilt. The blade is held in place by tightening screws and reflects the light produced by an LED located inside the hilt near the battery. A switch controls the light and sound for models equipped with it. The total length of the weapon is around 110 cm.

The Protective Mask

A traditional fencing mask compliant with CE European standards, featuring a stainless steel mesh and a bib resistant to a 350N impact. It may be supplemented with a mask cover or back protection to further reduce shock risks.

Reinforced Gloves

Specifically designed to block blows. Made of leather, they include a protective shell on the back of the hand and foam padding on the fingers. They still allow excellent grip on the lightsabers.

The Kimono

These are kurkas made of rice‑grain cotton. Thick and resistant, they effectively absorb impacts.