How Gyms Came Into Existence Part II

During the early 19th century, the first semblances of what we recognize as weights began to emerge. In Central Europe, strength competitions were held in taverns where individuals lifted a metal bar with enormous balls on either side. However, during that era, people didn't use them for exercise purposes; instead, they served as mere displays by circus performers, accompanied by the famous phrase: "The Strongest Man in the World."

Later on, weightlifting commenced with amateur competitions among small clubs, laying the foundation for modern weightlifting. The first indoor gymnasium originated in Germany in 1852 through the efforts of the educator Friedrich Jahn, hailed as the father of gymnastics. He aimed to unite his country through this sport. This movement gained immense popularity, leading to the proliferation of gymnasiums across Germany and soon spreading worldwide.

The initial exercise machines were invented by a Swedish scientist named Jonas Gustav Wilhelm Zander, an orthopedist who, in the late 19th century, created over 100 machines to assist individuals with sedentary lifestyles, especially those with weaker bodies unable to engage in high-performance sports, such as women and older adults. This marked the conception of gyms as places to promote health through progressive effort. In the 1940s, gyms became popular for weight loss and enhancing physical appearance. Over time, with significant technological advancements, they evolved into the modern fitness centers we know today.

Presently, attending gyms is highly recommended to attain a healthy lifestyle. In workplaces, individuals often sit for prolonged hours, resulting in physical and mental degradation due to stress accumulation. Consistent exercise aids in improving these conditions, and if it also contributes to enhancing beauty, it becomes an ideal combination.

Translated and adapted for a 12th-grade education level.