What should the Referee do when both fencers come into body contact without jostling or attempting to avoid the touch?

When both fencers come into body contact without jostling or attempting to avoid the touch, the appropriate action for the referee is to call Halt!; no penalty. This situation indicates that the contact occurred naturally without any intent to disrupt the bout or gain an unfair advantage. The referee's role is to ensure that the bout remains a fair competition, and in instances of incidental contact where neither fencer is trying to push, barge, or jostle, it is a sign that they are still engaged in the sport within the parameters of the rules.

Calling the bout to a halt allows the referee to reset the situation and ensure that the fencing can continue safely and fairly. The decision not to issue a penalty emphasizes the importance of maintaining the flow of the match while also addressing the physical interaction appropriately. This approach supports good sportsmanship and keeps the focus on the skill and technique of the fencers, rather than penalizing them for accidental contact that does not disrupt the bout.