History of Martial Arts - Near East and Central Asia

Near East and Central Asia

Further information: Furusiyya

The traditional Persian style of grappling was known as Koshti, with the physical exercise and schooled sport known as Varzesh-e Pahlavani. It was said to be traceable back to Arsacid Parthian times (132 BC - 226 AD), and is still widely practiced today in the region. Following the development of Sufi Islam in the 8th century AD, Varzesh-e Pahlavani absorbed philosophical and spiritual components from that religion. Other historical grappling styles from the region include Turkic forms such as Kurash, Köräş and Yağlı güreş.

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