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5,000 Years of Sweat: Lost Workout Wisdom From the History of Physical Culture

The Art of Manliness

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Specialization Diminishes the Universal Art of Fitness

The evolution of physical culture has led to its fragmentation into specialized disciplines such as bodybuilding, Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and CrossFit. This specialization emerged prominently in the 1920s and 30s as participants sought to excel in specific areas rather than embrace a more generalized approach to fitness. Additionally, the reputation of physical culture suffered due to eccentric figures in the early 20th century, which prompted professionals to distance themselves from the term in favor of a more academic view of physical education. Historical practices in exercise date back to ancient civilizations, underscoring the long-standing human pursuit of physical fitness.

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