The SilverSword Fencing Academy, set up by nationally-accredited coach Arash Karpour, is looking for people to learn the combat sport, in classes that begin on July 15.

Despite fencing's somewhat dangerous image, Mr Karpour moved to assure concerned parents it wasn't as brutal as it might appear, and was actually one of the safest sports.

"Injuries in fencing are a lot less than other sports, like soccer, in terms of the statistics," he said.

"The most brutal injury that you can get is a bruise.

"The beauty of fencing is you're not just using your brawn, you're using your brain as well.

"It's about strategy ... you've got to really think about it, you've got to plan your next action and then you're executing all those plans in a speed.

"There is not direct hit, there is no direct attack, there is no force on a blade, unlike what you see in the Hollywood movies."

Fencing is one of just five sports to have featured in every Olympic Games and Mr Karpour said it had enjoyed a rapid surge in popularity in recent years.

Wollongong-based Illawarra Academy of Sport and Australian representative Courtney Buchanan recently won a bronze medal at the Southeast Asian Games.

The 14-year-old, who is one of Mr Karpour's students, will again represent her country next month, this time in South Africa.

The Helensburgh sessions - to be held at the suburb's community hall from 6.30pm to 8pm - are aimed at children aged eight years and over and their parents. All equipment and safety gear is provided.

For more information about the academy visit silversword.com.au or contact Mr Karpour on 0401 519 851 to register your interest.