Gymnasium (ancient Greece) the Greek noun γυμνάσιον ("gymnasion"), "gymnastic school", in pl. "bodily exercises" and generally "school" which in turn is derived from the common Greek adjective ("gymnos") meaning "naked", by way of the related verb γυμνάζω ("gymnazo"), whose meaning is "to train naked", "train in gymnastic exercise", generally "to train, to exercise". The verb had this meaning because one undressed for exercise. Historically, the gymnasium was used for exercise, communal bathing, and scholarly and philosophical pursuits. The English noun "gymnast", first recorded in 1594, is formed from the Greek γυμναστής ("gymnastēs"), but in Greek this word means "trainer" not "gymnast". The "palaistra"
Nudity in sport Festival has a naked running race, and Camp Gymnasium hosts naked oil wrestling at Burning Man. One of the most popular events in naked sport is the international "Alps Adria Meeting". In 2007, this annual contest will take place for the 35th time in the camping ground "Kažela" close to Medulin/Croatia (June, 7th to June, 10th 2007). About 150 participants are expected. Another popular nudist sport event is the "International Nudist Swimming Gala" held by the International Naturist Federation in a different European city in early November every year. The top event of naturist sport in Europe (and perhaps worldwide)