What is Pankration?

Pankration is an ancient Greek martial art that combines elements of boxing and wrestling, as well as other forms of combat. The word "pankration" comes from the Greek words "pan" meaning "all" and "kratos" meaning "strength." This martial art was considered one of the most brutal combat sports of ancient Greece, and was included in the Olympic Games from 648 BC until 393 AD.

Pankration allowed almost all techniques of striking and grappling, including punches, kicks, elbows, knee strikes, chokes, and joint locks. The only techniques that were not allowed were biting and eye gouging. Matches continued until one of the fighters either submitted, was knocked out, or died.

Pankration was highly regarded by the ancient Greeks as it required great physical strength, skill, and endurance. Fighters had to be skilled in both striking and grappling, and were often required to compete against opponents who were much larger and stronger than they were. The sport was considered a true test of an athlete's combat abilities and was a highly respected form of competition.

Today, Pankration is still practiced in some parts of the world as a combat sport, but with modified rules to ensure the safety of the fighters. Modern Pankration emphasizes the use of grappling techniques, but also allows strikes to the body and head.