Page 8 - Physical Education in Ancient India

Sports and Games

Directly linked with Dhanurveda, because of the need to develop

strength and fitness of the warriors, were a wide range of

exercises (vyāyāma), sports and games (krīdā). People from all

walks of life were advised to practise them according to their

different capabilities.

Some of the exercises were very strenuous. For instance,

Bharasrama consisted in lifting heavy weights made of sandbags

of various sizes.

Another exercise, still prevalent today, was Stambhasrama,

performed on the pillar or with the help of a pillar. The athlete

was supposed to exercise by grasping the pillar with his arms

and legs and whirling round the pillar. This exercise is now

known as mallakhamba.