About Iccus of Taranto
Iccus of Taranto was a physician, pentathlete and philosopher.
Iccus of Taranto (5th century BC) was a Magna Graecia Olympic athlete, a victor during the 84th Games (444 BC) or 70th Games (470 BC) according to older sources. He is considered the father of athletic dietology. He prepared himself physically before competing according to ethical-religious Pythagorean concepts by abstaining from sexual intercourse and consuming a specially prepared frugal diet. He also taught these principles. Pausanias calls him the best gymnast of his age, and Plato also mentions him with great praise.
Iamblichus calls him a Pythagorean.
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Iccus of Taranto?
ancient Greek athlete and philosopher
When was Iccus of Taranto born?
Iccus of Taranto was born in Taranto.
When did Iccus of Taranto die?
Iccus of Taranto died in 460 BC.
What was Iccus of Taranto's occupation?
Iccus of Taranto was a physician, pentathlete and philosopher.
Sources & further reading
· Wikipedia: Iccus of Taranto
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Iccus of Taranto. https://biography.guide/iccus-of-taranto/
MLA: "Iccus of Taranto." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/iccus-of-taranto/.
Chicago: "Iccus of Taranto." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/iccus-of-taranto/.
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