Thoughts: Distance

There are a few "distances" in fencing. These distances are to the target. In epee the whole body is target and we want to aim at the closest target, the hand (or foot) first. aim at hand first, then arm and shoulder (or foot/knee/torso).  Aiming is another topic. For now, remember the hand and foot are the closest targets (but also the smallest) and should be taken into consideration when closing ground. 

Attacking the hand puts you in critical distance, if not touching distance. While you are maneuvering and trying to setup your opponent, your opponent's movement will change the distance.  Predicting where the target is going to be is easier if you are controlling the distance.

Out of distance.  A safe distance that is good for killing time, resting, thinking, inviting passivity. Fencers at the on guard line of the strip are 2 meters apart, right on the edge of fencing distance. From this range, you can see the opponent's actions with plenty of time to react.

Fencing - the distance where you are engaged with your opponent but outside of 'critical' distance. While each fencer is trying to control the ground to initiate or draw an attack the distance can quickly change to critical or touching.  This is the distance you attempt to control your opponent and move into critical distance with your opponent unaware using rhythm, tempo and distance stealing footwork.

Critical - the distance from where a touch can be scored in one action. Different fencers have different critical distances due to technical skills and athletic ability.  The direction the opponent is moving will change the distance. Predict where the opponent will be.  Note: do not hang out in critical distance. Only be in it when you are ready to score.

Feinting - the distance to the opponent where the opponent reacts to the false attack.  Generally this is just outside but right on the edge of critical distance depending on your opponent. If the opponent is not reacting to the feint, then it's not believable (or they failed to recognize it). Possibly due to tip not threatening the target or opponent thinks it's too far away to be real attack. 

Touching - the distance where either fencer can touch the other. Someone should be touching so, a halt is called and now is the time to analyze the touch. One light or two? Was it a setup? Who setup who?   Did you predict correctly? Did they change something?  Note: Swords are the same length so, if you can touch them, they can touch you. Always a good idea to defend while attacking.

In Fighting (close) - Any closer and there will be should be a halt for corps d' corps.  Often an attack collapses into either in fighting or passing.  Interesting actions such as sweeping, jumping, hits from behind the back, between the legs are often seen at this distance. Not a safe place for a beginner.

Passed - The transition from close distance to passing by is generally safe but the defender is allowed one action during the passing. Fly past the opponent quickly if you're passing. It's not a bad idea to defend as you're going by.