| Fight Duration | Points-based (first to 5 or 15) | Time-based- effective fencing time per weapon |
| Off-Target Hits (Foil/Sabre) | Stops the action | Does not stop the action- phrase continues |
| Simultaneous Actions (Foil/Sabre) | No point awarded | After 2nd simultaneous, point goes to Advantage Marker holder |
| Inactivity (Épée) | Passive play warnings | 45-second passivity clock triggers a point award |
| In-Fighting / Close Contact | Often stopped by referee | Allowed- referees permit controlled close exchanges |
| Out-of-Bounds (one foot) | Fight halted | Fight continues- only halted when both feet leave the piste |
| Team Format | Individual medal events | 6-fight relay- individual wins earn team points |