But a couple people whacking each other with swords is no fun... Errol Flynn is too stylized, you're right.
Maybe I'd better just keep hacking at it. Or keep all confrontation off-page. Or write sappy little romances. Only I can't write that sort of scene either.
Sigh... oh well, I've got years to practice until I drop dead, hopefully.
Heh, pun intended?
Seriesly, does the university have a fencing club, or self-defense classes? You might try hanging out at some of their practice sessions, to see the real thing in action.
Taking a self-defense course or a martial art course would be good exercise, too.