Comprehending the Strength of Medieval Soldiers

In the context of the medieval period, the strength characteristic of soldiers varied extensively. This era, stretching for about a thousand years, saw significant changes in weapons and combat strategies. Understanding the strength of medieval soldiers involves contemplating their physical capabilities, the context in which they thrived, and the standards of muscularity prevalent then.

Frame and Strength

The Role of Trade and Specialization

The strength of a medieval soldier heavily depended on his role and specialization. A skilled longbowman or mounted archer would have an upper body that reflected his trade. Such individuals were more likely to have a muscular structure that supported their high-precision tasks. On the other hand, a pikeman might not have exhibited the same level of upper body strength. This variation suggests that while muscularity was prized for specific roles, general endurance was equally crucial.

Endurance and Stamina

Endurance, defined as the capacity to walk long distances while carrying gear, played a more pivotal role than physical bulk. The ability to maintain prolonged physical activity, often in challenging terrains and adverse weather, was paramount. As a result, medieval footsoldiers were more likely to be wiry and tough rather than heavily muscled. This endurance attribute allowed soldiers to remain functional and effective for extended periods during marches and battles.

Muscularity as a Concept

The concept of muscularity was different during the medieval period. Modern standards of muscularity, such as body builders and bodybuilders with six-pack abs, would not have been the norm. Most medieval warriors were strong and sturdy, both physically and mentally. In fact, many were athletic and could rival present-day individuals. However, muscularity was not the primary goal. The values of this era frowned upon displaying the body, considering it dishonorable and shameful. Therefore, even if a strong individual did exist, his muscularity was not the product of praetorian training or modern physique standards.

The Debate on Muscularity

Whether an individual was muscular was a matter of debate. The average range of muscularity was likely between 70-80 percent, given the athletic nature required for combat. In this era, a bodybuilder walking among them would appear extraordinary, as the muscularity standards were far lower than today. This highlights a significant cultural and physical disparity between past and present muscular traits.

Training and Innate Strength

Understanding the difference between innate strength and muscle mass is crucial. Innate strength is more about conditioning and training than muscle mass. Building muscle requires dietary modifications that were not accessible to all soldiers. The emphasis was on hard training and maintaining physical fitness through arduous exercises and combat practices.

Physical Changes Over Time

The medieval period saw changes in weapon technologies, which impacted the physical demands on soldiers. For instance, English longbowmen are known for their impressive upper body musculature, particularly in the arms and back muscles. This suggests that specialization in certain skills could lead to significant muscular development.

Comparison with Modern Standards

Comparatively, professional soldiers of the medieval period were likely more physically fit and stronger than the average person today. This was not due to muscularity but rather due to daily physical activities, combat training, and the physically demanding nature of medieval life and labor. Even the average person of that time would have exhibited a level of strength that today's average person might find remarkable.

Conclusion

The strength of medieval soldiers, therefore, lies not solely in the muscularity of their bodies but in their overall physical and mental resilience. Understanding this context provides valuable insights into the physical and cultural expectations of the medieval era, which differ significantly from contemporary standards of fitness and muscularity.