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Updated: Apr 30, 2026

Conducting Maximal and Submaximal Endurance Exercise Testing to Measure Physiological and Biological Responses to Acute Exercise in Humans
Published on: October 17, 2018
Science of exercise: ancient Indian origin.
Ancient Indian texts, like the Caraka Samhita, contain extensive knowledge on exercise science (vyayama). This research highlights its therapeutic benefits for various diseases, emphasizing its historical significance.
Area of Science:
- Ayurveda and Ancient Indian Medicine
- Exercise Science and Kinesiology
- History of Medicine
Background:
- Western literature on ancient exercise science is abundant, but ancient Indian contributions have been largely overlooked.
- This study addresses the gap by investigating ancient Indian texts for insights into exercise science.
Observation:
- A thorough review of the Caraka Samhita revealed over 120 aphorisms related to exercise (vyayama).
- The text details the oldest known definition of exercise, its benefits, contraindications, and proper execution.
- Exercise is mentioned across all eight sections of the Caraka Samhita, indicating its integral role.
Findings:
- Caraka Samhita provides guidelines on the season and time for exercise, alongside its positive and negative effects.
- It describes exercise therapy for twenty types of phlegm-related (kaphaja) diseases and conditions like obesity and diabetes.
- The text emphasizes a holistic view of health, recommending exercise for the body and yoga for the mind and soul.
Implications:
- Ancient India possessed a sophisticated understanding of exercise science and its health benefits.
- Rediscovering and integrating this knowledge from texts like Caraka Samhita is crucial for modern health practices.
- This ancient wisdom, once neglected due to Western influence, deserves recognition and application in contemporary medicine.
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