The Mahabharata Period: During this period i.e., between 3000 B.C. to 300 B.C. exercises were considered the utmost favoured means of making body strong, stout and healthy. Wrestling and clubbing (macing) were widely known exercises. It was compulsory for all the Kashtriya princes to get knowledge of various wrestling techniques, such as Aakarshnam, Bahunamoolam, Greeva, Vikarshnam, Paryasan, Padpahar, Mahivyajanam, Bhiybandh etc. All the Kshtriya princes were fond of wrestling. Shri Balram and Shri Krishna were the great wrestlers. Bhim and Jarasandh too were adept in wrestling. Once they continued their arena war for about 15 days. Aijuna was a great archer of that periocf. Duryodhana, Bhim and Jarasandh were highly skilled in clubbing (macing).

The Chakra exercises too were a common feature of this period. Axe, Pestle, Plough, stick, Club etc. were the chief weapons used during the Mahabharata period. It was during the Brahmacharya Ashrama that an extensive and elaborate practice was given to the princes in handling and holding these tools and equipments. A great respect was accorded, to the physically strong and powerful persons in the society.