Test Day 2026: find out your level, plan your next step
During the week dedicated to épée at the 2026 Valles Fencing Camp, athletes over the age of 14 will have the opportunity to participate free of charge in a Test Day focused on assessing neuromuscular abilities and physical qualities specific to fencing.
The initiative stems from a desire to provide fencers with a practical tool to help them better understand their fitness levels and approach the new competitive season with greater awareness.
Fencing is a sport characterised by highly specific and asymmetrical movements. Lunges, changes of direction, bursts of speed and constant shifts in weight distribution require strength, explosiveness, coordination and motor control. Over time, functional imbalances can develop which are not always apparent during normal training.
For this reason, the Test Day will enable us to collect objective and useful data to assess the athletes’ physical abilities and identify any areas for improvement.
Two assessments to understand performance
SERIES OF JUMPS
The first assessment will focus on analysing the explosive strength of the lower limbs through a series of jump tests carried out on force-measuring platforms.
These tests enable the analysis of:
- Explosive power;
- Elastic and reactive force;
- Symmetry between the right and left limbs;
- Quality of the expression of strength.
The results provide an insight into how athletes use their lower limbs during the rapid movements and accelerations typical of fencing.
ISOMETRIC MAXIMUM STRENGTH TEST
The second assessment will focus on measuring maximum strength using specific isometric tests.
This methodology makes it possible to assess the ability to generate force under controlled conditions, providing precise information on the level of muscle development and the possible presence of functional asymmetries.
Strength analysis is a vital tool for planning gym workouts and designing more effective and personalised training programmes.
An opportunity to improve
At the end of the assessment, each athlete will have a clear picture of their physical characteristics.
The data collected will help to identify strengths and areas for improvement, plan athletic training more effectively, monitor progress in physical condition whilst reducing the risk of overtraining and injuries, and approach the competitive season with greater awareness.
A free service for Camp athletes
Participation in Test Day is completely free for those enrolled in the épée week at the 2026 Valles Fencing Camp who are 14 years of age or older.
The assessments will be carried out during the camp by qualified staff and will provide an important opportunity for development for all athletes who wish to gain a better understanding of their current level of fitness.
Because improving isn’t just about training more, but about training more intelligently.