Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Ancient Eroticism, Pagan Workouts & Body Ideals: History of the Gym
Jan 7, 2025
Eric Chaline, author of "The Temple of Perfection," dives into the intriguing history of gym culture, from the naked workouts of Ancient Greece to 19th-century bodybuilders. Discover how fitness spaces served as social institutions for men and reflected evolving ideals of masculinity. Chaline explores the journey of women in fitness and the modern inclusion of diverse bodies in gyms. He also discusses the impact of the world wars on body image and anticipates the future of fitness with trends like virtual reality workouts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Naked Workouts in Ancient Greece
- Kate Lister imagines herself in ancient Greece during the first Olympic Games.
- She notes that everyone works out naked, which makes her uncomfortable.
First Social History of the Gym
- There's no comprehensive history of the gym, despite it being a significant social and historical phenomenon.
- Eric Chaline's book aims to fill this gap, exploring the gym's evolution over centuries.
Defining a Gym
- A gym is defined as a dedicated building for exercise, distinct from sports fields designed for specific games.
- This definition distinguishes gyms from spaces used for functional activities.
