Ancient Eroticism, Pagan Workouts & Body Ideals: History of the Gym

Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

It's January and (reluctant) thoughts turn to gym memberships, but what are the ancient origins of this phenomena?

From the naked workouts of Ancient Greece to the bodybuilders of the 19th century, a lot has influenced exercise culture over the centuries - and it's always had a healthy dose of homoeroticism to it.

Joining Kate today is Eric Chaline, author of The Temple of Perfection, to take us inside these spaces and find out more about them.

This episode was edited by Tom Delargy, the producer was Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.

All music from Epidemic Sounds/All3 Media.

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Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.