In days gone by, some of the best physical training methods were designed for the battle field. Over time most cultures let them disappear for other, more ‘sophisticated’ methods. However, some populations stayed with them and added to them, though the essence stayed the same. The benefits continue to speak for themselves and Iran is a prime example with tools and traditions dating back to the Persian warriors of old. Techniques and equipment designed for the battlefield are applied to elite athletes – most notably power lifters and wrestlers. The rest of the world is finally waking up and the benefits are becomming far wider as more and more sportsmen of varied disciplines can confirm.