Centuries before the Islamic Republic or even Islam, Persian athletes fused spirituality and strength training in a practice called Varzesh-e-Bastani, the legacy of which may still persist. Though ...

Iran's "ancient sport" -- or "varzesh bastani" -- a traditional form of athletics that combines elements of Islam and ancient Persian beliefs, has long been a male-only domain. But not so much anymore ...

From the beginning of the human civilization many forms and methods of physical training, with consideration to some spiritual or religious believes, social values and/or political exigencies have ...

Iranian wrestling, which is part of the sport, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition, Varzesh-e bastani is recognised as the oldest sport in the world. Modern athletes train in ...

It is a complex of physical exercises that includes elements of combat arts, gymnastics, and strength training. Iranian wrestling, which is part of the sport, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage ...

An Iranian woman practices the ancient discipline of varzesh bastani at a zurkhaneh, or traditional gym.

Iran’s Olympians have staged a triumphant return back home, with their best ever medal haul at the recently-concluded London Olympics. In terms of overall world ranking, Iran finished 17th, ahead of ...