How is the distance set in wheelchair fencing?
B · Beginner · The bout · 2 of 4Before the bout the fencers set the measure. Sitting upright, one bends the arm while the other reaches with a straight arm to the inner forearm at foil and sabre, or the outer elbow at epee; then they swap. A shorter-armed fencer may choose a distance between. Once agreed it cannot change. On guard, fencers sit upright, hips forward, still until "Play".
How it works
- Measure: set before the bout.
- Foil and sabre: to the inner forearm.
- Epee: to the outer elbow.
- Shorter arm: may choose between.
- Category C: 10 cm further.
- Fixed: for the whole bout.
- On guard: upright, hips forward.
- Start: still until "Play".
The glossary has the fencing measure, the sitting position (wheelchair fencing), the category A, B and C, the fencing frame, the centre line and the losing balance.
Tricky cases
Can the measure change mid-bout?
No.
A fencer shifts position before "Play". Penalty?
A first-group offence.
Who has the shorter-arm choice?
The fencer with the shorter arm.
Can the hips turn towards the opponent?
No. Only the upper body.
Why the rule exists
A measured distance gives both fencers fair reach, since neither can move the chair.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Foil, sabre | Forearm | t.76.0, t.96.0 |
| Epee | Elbow | t.90.0 |
| Category C | 10 cm more | t.76.0 |
From the rule book
World Para Fencing, Book 1 Technical Rules (January 2026), articles t.22, t.76, t.90 and t.96. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: World Para Fencing rulebooks 0 to 4.