If you thought fencing was old news, guess again. Swords play a pointed role in the latest 007 adventure, “Die Another Day,” where Madonna – as a fencing coach dressed as a dominatrix – memorably tells Pierce Brosnan’s Bond, “I see you handle your weapon well.”
Learn to handle your weapon at Equinox gym on Broadway and 19th Street, where Yefim Monosov teaches fencing on Saturdays.
“Fencing is a smart sport for smart people,” says the Russian-born teacher, who has competed in many fencing bouts.
Students use foils – with rubber-like tips – as Monosov demonstrates how to salute, lunge, move forward, reverse (move back), touch and disengage.
While the technique is interesting at first, it gets boring fast. The learning process requires serious individual attention. (I doubt Halle Berry learned how to fence along with four or five other people, let alone in a tiny studio.)
It’s easy to get the basics down and Monosov works with individuals as much as he can, but to seriously master the craft – or even break a sweat – you’d need to devote a few days to the sport, learning consecutive sequences and Buffy-esque moves.
I give fencing two biceps. It’s good for balance and hand-eye coordination, but if you’re hoping to lose some of those holiday pounds, hit the treadmill instead.
Equinox Gym
897 Broadway, at 19th Street; (212) 780-9300
Saturdays, from 3-4 p.m.
$25, if accompanied with guest member. No walk-ins.
Two biceps