Physical culture, in both antiquity and modernity, refers to the cultivation of the body through physical exercise, discipline, and care, aiming for physical health, strength and aesthetic development. However, its meaning and significance have evolved over time. In antiquity, physical culture was deeply intertwined with philosophy, education and societal values. In ancient Greece, for example, physical training was an integral part of ‘paideia’, the education of the citizens. As discussed previously, ‘paideia’, was a educational philosophy which idealised the harmonious development of body and mind, seeing physicial excellence as a reflection of moral and intellectual virtue. Activities such as wrestling, running and gymnastics were not just for warriors but for the personal development of all able bodied citizens.
Clearly, the most symbolic event surrounding physical culture was the Olympic Games. The Ancient Greeks admired athletes as models of human potential. All sports are essentially an abstract form of war and the ancient Greeks understood this concept clearly.
In modernity, physical culture has evolved into a more specialised field. Unfortunately, the idea of physical prowess and sporting achievement are not encouraged wholly within the education system. We now view it as something separate. The industrial revolution and urbanisation has led to more sedentary lifestyles. This has resulted in the rise of modern physical culture movements. The most evident physical culture movement in modernity has got to be bodybuilding. We can see within this movement an ode to times gone by. The posing, aesthetics and even the trophy remind all classicists of the foundations of physical culture espoused by the ancient Greeks. Contemporary bodybuilding has its foundations in antiquity but would not be what it is today without the work of Eugen Sandow.
Eugen Sandow and Physical Culture
Eugen Sandow (1867-1925), often regarded as the “father of modern bodybuilding”, played a pivotal role in shaping physical culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Sandow’s approach to physical culture emphasised the aesthetic development of the human body. He modelled this idea on the ideals of ancient Greek and Roman statuary. His influence extended far beyond bodybuilding. He promoted physical fitness as an essential aspect of personal well-being and societal health. Modern bodybuilders, like Sandow believe that physical development results from disciplined training, proper nutrition and a focus on symmetrical muscle growth. Sandow would perform feats of strength and display his finely tuned physique at public displays. Therefore, paving the way for the modern culture surrounding bodybuilding.
In addition to his performances, Sandow authored books and produced exercise equipment, further expanding his influence. He emphasised that physical training was not just for strongmen, but everyone. His work laid the foundation for modern bodybuilding, fitness culture and the importance of health and aesthetics in physical training. Therefore, his work laid the foundation for modern bodybuilding, fitness culture and aesthetics worldwide.
The German Turnen
The German ‘Turnen’ movement, founded by Friedrich Ludwig Jahn in the early 19th century, was a physical culture initiative focused on gymnastics, national pride and physical education. The term ‘Turnen’, comes from the German word for “gymnastics” or “exercise”. This movement aimed to foster physical strength, discipline and moral character. It was born at a time of national fragmentation and was intended to provide a means of uniting and strengthening the German people.
Jahn believed that physical fitness was essential for both personal development and the defence of the nation. Following the Napoleonic Wars, where Germany was divided and weakened, Jahn saw ‘Turnen” as a way to cultivate not only healthy and disciplined individuals but also a strong and united German identity.
“Following the Napoleonic Wars, where Germany was divided and weakened, Jahn saw ‘Turnen” as a way to cultivate not only healthy and disciplined individuals but also a strong and united German identity.“
He founded the first outdoor gymnasium in Berlin in 1811, where young men engaged in calisthenics, gymnastics and various exercises designed to build strength, endurance and agility.
The movement quickly spread, and gymnastics clubs were established across German-speaking Europe. These clubs became centers for not only physical training but also political and cultural activism, promoting German unity and resistance to foreign influence. As the movement grew, it began to focus more on nationalistic ideals, which led to clashes with authorities. In 1819, the Prussian government banned ‘Turnen’ due to its perceived revolutionary potential, though it continued in secret. By the mid-19th century, the ban was lifted and the movement flourished once again.
‘Turnen’ became a key part of German education, and the movement influenced the development of modern gymnastics as well as physical education systems worldwide. Today the legacy of the ‘Turnen’ movement remains strong. It continues to play a significant role in physical education and community sports, promoting fitness and camaraderie among its participants.
Sweden’s Ling System
Sweden’s Ling Sytem, was developed by Pehr Henrik Ling in the early 19th century. This was a comprehensive physical education program that emphasised strength, health and body mechanics through structured exercise. Ling, a physician and fencing master, sought to create a scientific approach to physical training based on anatomical and physiological principles.
His system was designed to promote overall well-being, rehabilitation and military preparedness. For instance, the Ling system focused on four main areas:
Aesthetic Gymnastics – To improve posture and grace.
Educational Gymnastics – For schools and general fitness.
Medical Gymnastics – For therapeutic purposes and injury recovery.
Military Gymnastics – To physically condition soldiers.
These exercises involved precise, controlled movements aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength and coordination and were often performed in a regimented, collective setting.
What set the Ling System apart was its emphasis on structured movement patterns. Therefore, the Swedish government successfully integrated it into its public health and educational system. Ling’s work laid the groundwork for modern physiotherapy and rehabilitation practices, as well as influencing physical education in schools worldwide.
The founding of the Royal Central Institute of Gymnastics in Stockholm coincided with the institutionalisation of the Ling system in 1813. This system would become a global model for physical education.
The Future of Physical Culture
As previously mentioned, it is without doubt that physical culture has played a vital part in European history and its cultural development. However, I do not believe that this is enough. The reason being, the shocking amount of obesity and general physical incompetence we see within our societies today.
As a European Muslim, I look at this issue from two angles. In Islam, it is undoubtedly important to maintain a optimal physical condition. We must achieve and maintain an optimal physical condition to ensure we are representing and defending Islam correctly. A better diet and disciplined exercise regimen will undoubtedly increase our concentration in worship. Unfortunately, the poor health epidemic has affected the Muslims also. In fact, some might argue that in the United Kingdom, the Muslim community hailing from South Asia are in a worse state.
In my opinion, European Muslims can propel themselves to the forefront of an Islamic Physical Culture. After all, it is not necessary to discard everything our ancestors have worked on previously. However, we can refine these ideas to create something new and revive something lost in a beautiful new way.
