When next-gen gym centres and fitness applications dominate the world, the Mudgar or Indian club still holds supremacy among fitness freaks in strength-building. Wielded by warriors and wrestlers from ancient India, Mudgar has received worldwide attention for the significant benefits of promoting fitness in improving joint health, enhancing grip, and strengthening physical health. The deep-rooted relation of Mudgar with Vyayamshala (traditional gym) in ancient India has been replenished in its prominence since NarendraModi, the prime minister of India, has acknowledged this traditional fitness tool in “Mann ki Baat”.
What is Mudgar?
Mudgar, also known as “Indian Club” or “Clubbed,” is ancient fitness equipment used for physical conditioning and overall strength training. It is mainly made of heavy wooden and mould-like broadened clubs with a wide base. It is crafted in various weights and sizes, ranging from lightweight to extensive, weighing 20 kilograms or more.
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Historical significance of Mudgar
Symbol of discipline
The training on Mudgar is not only about fitness in various Indian cultures but also about developing patience, mental toughness, and focus.
The long relationship with the Akharas
For centuries, India's traditional wrestling gym (also known as Akharas) has been using Mudgars as a prime part of strength and continuing the fitness routine.
Mudgar’s benefits on modern fitness
Physiotherapists and fitness trainers nowadays are increasingly considering Mudgar for strength development and rehabilitation programs. Some important benefits of Mudgar are given below.
Enhanced shoulder mobility
Swinging and practicing Mudras in circular motion assists to increase the flexibility in the shoulder joints and decrease stiffness.
Improve the grip strength
Thick handles of Mudgar demand control with a strong grip that is most crucial for athletes and fitness trainers.
Muscle-mind connection
The rhythm in Mudgar training always encourages breath coordination and mindful movements.
Prevention of injuries
Mudgar exercises also fix the muscular imbalances that are pivotal to avoiding injuries.
Global recognition
The global fitness trainers are now recognising the benefits of Mudgar in functional training.
Incorporated in the West
The fitness community from the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States of America are now adopting the traditional Indian fitness equipment Mudgar for unconventional strength training.
Celebrity fitness trainers
The celebrity fitness trainers, professional athletes and influencers often noticed in sharing Mudgar routines on YouTube and Instagram that made it a fitness trend across the globe.
Endorsement by the Prime Minister of India in “Mann ki Baat”
In the 108th episode of the monthly radio program, MaankiBaat, Prime Minister of India, NarendraModi, has endorsed the traditional art of workout with Mudgar in 2023. He further expressed his preference for the Mudgar club bell to carry out the exercise rather than going into the fancy gym. Prime Minister has also shed light on its resurgence even nowadays among the fitness trainers and youth, which underscores its importance in maintaining the traditional health practices of India. Furthermore, he stated the significance of embedding Mudgar into the indigenous and modern fitness system to promote both the physical and mental well-being, which ultimately encouraged the citizen to enclasp the ancient wisdom of India.
Conclusion
Mudgars are beyond the piece of wood and the equipment for exercising. It is the emblem of ancient India’s understanding on health, discipline and strength. As the fitness trend nowadays is tilting toward sustainability, tradition, and functionality, Mudgars always offer a significant alternative to contemporary gym equipment. With the continued government support and awareness among the people, this tool could become staple equipment in the fitness landscape around the globe.