Use of the Greek Gymnasia by the Military

Greek gymnasia were not only used for daily physical training and mental exercise for Greek youth, they were also utilized for battle exercises and tactical drills (Forbes 1971, 37). Not only were intense military training regiments employed during times of war, the gymnasia sometimes also functioned as holding places for prisoners of war or as places where the wounded could recuperate.

The 6th century BCE has been called the “Age of Strong Men” due to the constant military training occurring during the time period. In antiquity, Sparta was recognized for producing the best soldiers as they were known to recruit the greatest number of athletes who had obtained the most victories during the athletic competition and Olympic Games.