During a fencing match, what should be considered an automatic penalty?

Stepping off the piste during a fencing match is considered an automatic penalty because it directly violates the regulation governing the area of engagement. The piste, or the strip, is the designated area where the bout takes place, and both fencers must remain within its boundaries for the match to proceed fairly. Leaving this area not only disrupts the flow of the match but can also create safety concerns for the fencers and the officials. As such, stepping off the piste incurs an immediate penalty, which typically results in a point awarded to the opponent or a warning, depending on the rules governing the specific competition.

In contrast, taking too long to regroup, not scoring, and making eye contact with an opponent do not constitute automatic penalties under fencing rules. While these actions may be dealt with in some fashion by the referee, they do not result in an immediate penalty like stepping off the piste does.