VMP -1 Course Introduction

These are truly challenging times and we will make it through together. We will do so through a continued focus on safety, patience, and our ability to adapt to ever-changing landscape challenges posed by the Corona outbreak.

We have been working hard to adapt to this situation and find the best way possible to provide you with effective, fun, exciting resources to help you maintain and advance your fencing skills. We are excited to launch our Virtual Membership Program (VMP) a multi-modal approach to distance learning that will provide you with some great tools to get in shape, keep in shape, sharpen your skills, and learn some new concepts.

We are confidant that your active participation in this program will provide you with great benefits and ultimately help you be a better fencer. So, grab your spoons and get read for action! Oh yeah, we’ll explain the spoons shortly.

However first a point of great importance, perhaps best stated by the Father of Modern Medicine Hippocrates (460-370 BC): Prinum non nocere – “First do no harm“

One problem posed by distance learning is that we cannot monitor your safety practices, hydration, warm-up/cool-down routines… so it is vitally important that take all proper safety precautions to protect yourself and those around you, be sure to stay hydrated, warm-up before attempting any intense physical activity, cool-down afterwards, store your gear carefully, and advance your workouts gradually.

Another challenge posed by distance learning is that we are limited in how we can monitor your fencing form and so we will be giving a good deal of attention to maintaining good form and it is important that you do the same.

As mentioned earlier your active participation in this program will be key to your success and your input is both welcome and necessary to make this the best program possible.

Which reminds me of another quote attributed to Hippocrates!

So, if you are ready do away with any reasons holding you back from being the best fencer you can possibly be – review the safety rules posted below, grab your spoons, and come along!

Extra Credit Assignment: Research Hippocrates thoughts on eating earwax.