While many sports require adaptation to become inclusive, wheelchair fencing is unique in that it loses none of the speed, intensity, or tactical depth of its standing counterpart. In fact, some argue it’s even more intense: because the athletes are fixed in place, there is no retreating—only the fight.
Whether you are a prospective athlete or a curious spectator, here is everything you need to know about this high-speed Paralympic sport.
You don’t need to be a world-class athlete to start. Most local fencing clubs are becoming increasingly accessible and can provide the necessary frames and equipment for beginners. If you’re looking for a sport that combines elegance with "all-in" intensity, it’s time to pick up the blade.
While fencing is a popular sport in Wales, specialized wheelchair fencing frames (which bolt the chairs to the floor) are high-cost equipment and are currently only available at a few specific locations. Following the 2024 Wheelchair Fencing World Cup held in Cardiff, several frames were distributed into the community to increase accessibility. Welsh Fencing also invested in frames (supported by funding from SportWales) & ditributed these to clubs to make wheelchair fencing accessible across Wales.
Frames are available at the following clubs: