Methods of Fitness and Health Maintenance in Antiquity: Greek and Roman Approaches
Ancient Egypt Meets Modern-Day Fitness Concerns: Lessons from Rome's Esteemed Physician Galen
By Dr. Konstantine Panegyres, McKenzie Postdoctoral Fellow, The University of Melbourne
Affording time to maintain physical fitness and well-being remains a challenge for many individuals in today's fast-paced world, as revealed in a treatise written 2,000 years ago by the renowned Roman philosopher and physician, Galen.
Galen, a prolific writer who lived from around 129 to 216 AD, dealt with thousands of patients in the bustling city of Rome. One of his patients, the philosopher Premigenes, spent most of his days immersed in scholarly pursuits, barely venturing outside and neglecting his health in the process. Consequently, Premigenes fell ill.
Galen advised Premigenes to work fewer hours and dedicate more time to exercise and enjoying the sun. This advice aligns with current World Health Organization recommendations for exercise and is still applicable today, despite the challenges of balancing careers, family, and social obligations with one's health.
In ancient times, as today, busy schedules and sedentary lifestyles can have detrimental effects on health. The writer Lucian of Samosata, from the 2nd century AD, wrote in his essay "On Salaried Posts in Great Houses" of the toll that endless labor, poor diet, and lack of sleep took on workers, often leading to various illnesses, such as consumption, pneumonia, indigestion, and even the gout.
Galen too recognized the health impacts of a hectic life. He believed that among the determinants of good health was the amount of leisure time an individual possessed. Some people, due to circumstances beyond their control, such as slavery, had limited opportunities to focus on their wellbeing. However, others who chose to prioritize work over self-care were the most likely to suffer health issues.
Galen himself struggled to maintain a healthy routine due to the demands of his profession as a healer. Nonetheless, in his twenties, he committed to adopting a daily health regimen, consisting of one full meal each evening and engaging in some form of exercise each day. His regimen included wrestling, which resulted in a dislocated shoulder at the age of 35. This routine offered flexibility, allowing him to find time for exercise even amidst his busy schedule.
Sadly, many of Galen's contemporaries failed to prioritize their health. They overworked, consumed excessive amounts of food and drink, and neglected physical activity. Galen didn't advocate for everyone to adopt his specific routine but encouraged people to find routines that best suited their individual needs.
Ischomachus, a wealthy Athenian citizen who lived in the 5th century BC, provides another example of a busy individual who managed to maintain his fitness through practical means. Ischomachus ran or walked during his daily commute, alternating between the two, and engaged in similar activities when visiting his farm. Socrates commended Ischomachus for his efficient health practices, even though he was always engaged in various commitments.
The philosopher Aristotle believed that health, in part, depended on personal responsibility. If a person led an unhealthy lifestyle and ignored the advice of health professionals, it was no surprise, in Aristotle's view, if they became unwell. In general, the ancients believed that it was up to each individual to find practices that could help them maintain their health. This emphasis on personal responsibility remains a valuable lesson for modern-day fitness enthusiasts seeking to balance their busy lives with their well-being.
Originally published by The Conversation, 06.04.2024, under the terms of a Creative Commons Attribution/No derivatives license.
- In the writings of Galen, a Roman physician from antiquity, we find advice that is still relevant today in the realm of health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise. He advocated for individuals to prioritize exercise and leisure time, aligning with current World Health Organization recommendations.
- Galen's emphasis on personal responsibility in maintaining health is a timeless lesson for modern-day individuals striving to balance their busy lives with their fitness and well-being in the science of health-and-wellness.
