One touch can mean the difference between winning Olympic gold or not. According to Robert Smith, president of Capital City Fencer's Club in Victoria, interest in fencing classes has tripled since the games. So, what's in it other than wearing white garb, a big mask and dueling like you're in a Shakespeare play? Apparently the sport requires a tremendous amount of lower body strength. It also entails discipline to get the footwork right and -- obviously -- quick thinking.
How much?
An introductory course costs upwards of around $50 for eight - ten weeks, about two hours a class. Usually clubs will have equipment available for beginners to use.
Where to start?
Find a club - there are usually several running in big cities. Also, look for your province's association: Atlantic Canada is at eaternfence.ca and information in Quebec can be found at escrimequebec.qc.ca.