Impact of lower-body strength and power on lunge velocity in elite fencers: a comparative weapon analysis

Objective This study investigates the relationship between lower-body strength, power, and lunge velocity in elite female fencers of different weapons (foil, épée, and saber) to analyze the differences in fitness requirements between weapons and to provide a scientific basis for specialized fitness training. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used to include 45 female fencers (12 in foil, 16 in saber, and 17 in épée) who performed the isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP), countermovement jump, squat jump, drop jump, static lunge velocity and advance lunge velocity tests. A one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the differences among weapons groups, and Pearson’s correlation was used to analyze the relationship between lower-body strength, power, and lunge velocity. Results Épée fencers had significantly higher advance lunge velocity than foil ( P = 0.0003) and saber ( P = 0.0001). The IMTP-50 ms rate of force development (RFD) of saber fencers was significantly better than that of épée fencers ( P = 0.0213). Correlation analysis showed that the advance lunge velocity of foil fencers was strongly and positively correlated with IMTP relative maximal force ( r = 0.63, P = 0.030). In contrast, the static lunge velocity of saber fencers was strongly correlated with squat jump height ( r = 0.67, P = 0.004) and IMTP 250–300 ms RFD ( r = 0.53, P = 0.035). Conclusion Significant differences in lunge performance were found between fencers of different weapons. The results indicate that épée fencers exhibit significantly superior advance lunge velocity compared to foil and saber fencers. Furthermore, foil fencers require greater lower-body strength, and saber fencers rely more on the ability to develop force rapidly. The study supports the development of differentiated physical training programs for each weapon to optimize competitive performance.