What is the Wand? A Brief History of the European Staff Exercise, and its connection to the Barbell

A seven-minute historical documentary film about the use of the stick and staff as an exercise tool in European and American history, and to its incarnation as the immensely popular "wand" during the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. We chart the ways in which the implement changed and evolved throughout the centuries, was used to cultivate flexibility, strength, mental development, was used in combative exercises, and gave rise to the modern barbell. This video represents Episode 9 of the ongoing "Getting Back in Shape with 19th Century Historical Exercises" series, all of which can be viewed here:    • Getting Back in Shape with 19th Century Hi...   For more mini historical documentaries on physical culture such as this one, check out the following playlist:    • Mini Historical Documentaries