In the time of the Persian Empire, the houses of strength (Zoorkhaneh) were dedicated places to train men as warriors and to encourage a sense of national pride in anticipation of upcoming battles.
Today, no more than 500 of these traditional training rooms remain in Iran and about 20 in Tehran. Local athletes have taken action to preserve this heritage and to pass it down to future generations.
Inside the house of strength in the middle top sits a man with a large drum (called tombak) on his lap, beating out a rhythm with his fingers, occasionally clanging a bell and calling out mournful pleas to Imam Ali. The beat no less energetic, but douses in ancient history.
The workout takes place in an octagonal pit in front of him, using the same equipment, modeled on medieval weapons, that has existed for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years.
The huge wooden clubs called “meels” resemble iron maces, clanging metal contraptions resemble an archer’s bow, and a huge shield which is made out of wood today known as the “sang”. The physique that comes from working out with these items along with the ritualized press-ups, spins and wrestling is the sort of physical and spiritual preparation for war.