The Fencer and the Zen Body Paperback – 29 Oct. 2015

As a new(ish) fencer, getting my body aligned and relaxed can seem almost impossible. In the heat of battle its easy to forget the elegance of the sport, I just want to get the other guy before he gets me!! This is the book that helps you get your mind and body (and sword) operating in sync. It is incredibly useful for those of us who tense up during a bout, with its many diagrams and posture exercises. It has (I feel) a relationship to the other body posture disciplines, such as Alexander technique, but with the extra dimension of swordsmanship. I want to win bouts, in a relaxed, controlled and painless way. Quincy Rabots book really helps......go get it!!!

Read the introductions and you'll know you are in good hands with the author's wealth of experience. This book is thoughtfully and skilfully written, the explanations are easy to follow and are accompanied by great illustrations. You don't have to be a fencer to appreciate this book: the chapter on breathing is excellent and there is much information that can be applied to other sports (in my case as a tennis player). The Egosue Method exercises to prevent injury will be more than handy - I own Egoscue's book Pain Free and it has been invaluable. This book by Quincy Rabot has joined it on my shelf as a much appreciated addition.

Very good, makes you think