Fencing was once commonly learned at an early age, which is why so many octogenarians still settle disputes with games of Rock, Paper, Épée. Celebrate civilized swordplay with today’s Groupon.

$19 for Four Weeks of Fencing Classes for Children 6–15 ($55 Value)

Participants can call to register for classes, which are available weekdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. Though the curriculum for each session varies by age and experience level, students learn skills such as footwork, offense, and defense.

Grand Rapids Fencing Academy

Under the guidance of cofounders and brothers Mikhail and Arkadiy Sarkisov, the skilled coaches at Grand Rapids Fencing Academy enlighten budding swordsmiths on the essential techniques of modern fencing. During informative classes for all experience levels, students learn the foot moves, blade work, and confetti-cutting skills of èpèe-, foil-, and saber-style fencing. Each session is designed to improve mind-body coordination and flexibility while providing aerobic exercise. A wall of full-length mirrors allows pupils to view and modify their techniques inside the sprawling hardwood studio.

Mikhail and Arkadiy Sarkisov sharpened their fencing skills on the former Soviet Union's national fencing team before earning medals in their home country's national championship. In 2004, the United States Olympic Committee named Mikhail the Developmental Coach of the Year in fencing. Both brothers hold master's degrees in fencing and have placed highly in numerous tournaments across multiple globes.