Wheelchair fencing is a static discipline, with athletes competing in a wheelchair in a special frame firmly fastened to the floor. The fencers cannot move forward or backward and are always at close quarters with their opponent, ensuring high-intensity bouts. Like its Olympic equivalent, wheelchair fencing consists of three disciplines: foil, épée and sabre.
Wheelchair fencing was developed by Sir Ludwig Guttmann at Stoke Mandeville Hospital after World War II to aid the recovery of patients with spinal cord injuries by strengthening their muscles and improving their balance. Wheelchair fencing quickly became popular and the discipline was included at the inaugural Paralympic Games in 1960.