Pair of wooden exercise clubs, India, 1871-1920

Made:
1871-1920 in India
Pair of wooden exercise clubs, Indian, 1871-1920

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Pair of wooden exercise clubs, Indian, 1871-1920
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Pair of wooden exercise clubs, Indian, 1871-1920

Thought to have evolved from ancient weaponry, these wooden exercise clubs were used in India to improve strength and agility. The heavy clubs were used in swinging gymnastic exercises. They came in different shapes, sizes and weights. British soldiers adopted exercise clubs into their physical training while stationed in India. On their return home, soldiers brought them back to England. Using exercise clubs spread to America in the 1860s, where they became a popular part of physical training.

Details

Category:
Therapeutics
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A234133
Materials:
wood
Measurements:
handle only: 100 mm 30 mm,
overall (pt 2): 540 mm 104 mm, 4.24 kg
overall (pt 1): 545 mm 104 mm, 4.22 kg
type:
exercise club
credit:
Glendining