What action constitutes a valid hit in fencing?

In fencing, a valid hit occurs when one fencer successfully strikes their opponent in an area designated as target. This includes any part of the opponent’s body that is within the permissible target zone for the specific type of fencing being practiced. In the case of foil and epee, this would typically include parts like the torso, arms, and legs, while saber allows for strikes to the upper body and head.

A strike that touches any part of the opponent's body qualifies as a valid hit, because that action demonstrates effective scoring contact within the rules governing the sport. This captures the essence of what it means to achieve a point in a fencing match, which is the ability to make successful, legitimate contact with the opponent.

The other options provided do not meet the necessary criteria for scoring. For instance, striking the opponent's mask or making contact with the opponent's weapon does not equate to hitting a valid target area, and touching the chest with the blade, while it might seem valid, is often subject to specific context in a match that can disallow that as a score based on the type of weapon and rules in play. Understanding the designated target areas is crucial for both fencers and referees to ensure fairness and accuracy in scoring during competitions.