The Palaestra

The Palaestra stands for the Latin word “gym.”

It is similar to the modern-day gym and consists of areas for training and a swimming pool.

In Pompeii’s Palaestra, the Men would lift weights, much as they do now.

They would also wrestle, fence, box, and play ball activities like a handball in the palaestra. 

Women would also visit the Palaestra to exercise, and their preferred form of exercise was typically the game of Trochus, which involved pushing a metal loop with a hooked stick.

Like modern doctors, ancient physicians advised exercise as a way to maintain your physical fitness and well-being. 

Additionally, they believed doing this would improve your mental clarity (a healthy mind in a healthy body).

Featured Image: Pompeiisites.org