I can’t tell if I’m depressed that the 2024 Olympics are over or that Snoop Dogg isn’t going to be on TV every day. Sigh, what a ride. While watching this year’s Paris Olympics I kept thinking, “How did we get here?” I vaguely remember some talk in middle school about the Greeks starting the tradition of the Olympics, but I think what I was really asking myself is “how did exercising in general even really start?” Contrary to popular belief it’s not a topic most personal training credentialing programs touch on. So, I did a deep dive and this is what I found out.
Exercise, a term synonymous with fitness and well-being, has an ancient and diverse history. From the dawn of civilization to today’s highly-specialized fitness routines, the concept of exercise has evolved dramatically. The journey is not just about the pursuit of physical health; it’s a fascinating story of survival, cultural practices and scientific advancement.
In prehistoric times, physical activity was not a choice, but a necessity. Early humans engaged in rigorous physical exertion as a part of daily survival. Hunting, gathering and defending against predators required endurance, strength and agility. These activities were the earliest forms of exercise, though they were driven by the instinct to survive rather than the desire to stay fit. Mr. Caveman wasn’t running away from or to a bear thinking, “I am going to have the best quads in the cave.” He wasn’t probably thinking much at all, except “I need food, or I become food.”
As societies began to form, physical prowess became associated with status and power. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans placed a high value on physical fitness. The Greeks, in particular, are renowned for their contributions to exercise culture. The Olympic Games, which began in 776 B.C., were a celebration of physical excellence, featuring events like running, wrestling and discus throwing. These games were deeply rooted in Greek culture, symbolizing the ideal of a sound mind in a sound body.
The Middle Ages saw a decline in the emphasis on physical fitness. With the fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of feudal societies, exercise became less of a priority. The focus shifted to survival through farming and craftsmanship, activities that required less intense physical exertion compared to the athleticism celebrated in earlier eras. However, knights and soldiers still engaged in rigorous training to prepare for battle, keeping the tradition of physical conditioning alive in certain segments of society.
The Renaissance period marked a revival of interest in physical fitness, driven by the rediscovery of ancient Greek and Roman texts. Educators and philosophers of the time, such as the Swiss teacher Johann Bernhard Basedow, began to advocate for physical education as part of a well-rounded education. The Enlightenment furthered this trend, with the belief that physical exercise was crucial for mental and moral development.
One of the lesser-known pioneers of modern exercise was Pehr Henrik Ling, a Swedish fencing master who in the early 19th century developed a system of gymnastics that emphasized both physical and mental well-being. Ling’s methods laid the groundwork for what would become known as Swedish gymnastics, a precursor to modern physical therapy.
The 20th century witnessed a significant transformation in how exercise was perceived and practiced. The industrial revolution brought about a more sedentary lifestyle, which in turn led to a growing awareness of the need for regular physical activity. During the 1920s, the physical culture movement gained popularity, promoting body-building, calisthenics and organized sports.
In the post-World War II era, the concept of fitness exploded into the mainstream. Dr. Kenneth Cooper, often referred to as the “father of aerobics,” published his groundbreaking book “Aerobics” in 1968, which popularized cardiovascular exercise and laid the foundation for the modern fitness industry. This period also saw the rise of fitness icons like Jack LaLanne, who brought exercise into American homes through television.
Today, exercise is a global phenomenon, with a vast array of options ranging from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to mindfulness-based practices like yoga and Pilates. The fitness industry continues to innovate, incorporating technology with wearable fitness trackers and virtual workout classes.
As we look back on the history of exercise, it’s clear that our relationship with physical activity has evolved from a survival necessity to a cornerstone of modern wellness. Whether it’s for health, competition or simply enjoyment, the ways we exercise today are deeply rooted in the practices of our ancestors. Who else is counting down to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?
Fun facts and tidbits
- The first treadmill: Originally designed in 1818 by Sir William Cubitt, the treadmill was not a fitness device but a form of punishment for prisoners. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that the treadmill became a popular exercise machine. P.S.: It looked NOTHING like a treadmill. Think more like Jacob’s ladder, but far less sturdy.
- Yoga’s ancient roots: While yoga is often associated with modern wellness, its origins date back over 5,000 years to ancient India. Originally a spiritual practice, yoga’s physical postures were developed to prepare the body for long periods of meditation.
- The Presidential Fitness Test: Introduced in 1966 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, this test was designed to encourage physical fitness among American children. It included exercises like push-ups, sit-ups and a one-mile run. I still remember doing this in elementary and middle school – anyone else?
