Dating to the 5th century BC, records relating to the halteres can be found as far back as 700 BC. Weighing anywhere from 2 to 9 kilograms, Halteres were initially used to help Greek athletes train to extend their long jump distances. Holding halteres in each hand, athletes would increase their long jump distances by swinging the halteres backward and allowing the force of the weights to carry them further. Over time these devices would be used for curls, overhead presses and a variety of lunges.

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