Iccus of Taranto

Iccus of Taranto was a Magna Grecia Ancient [Olympic Games|Olympic athlete], a victor during the 84th Games or 70th Games 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 a frugal diet specially prepared. 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. According to Themistius, Plato reckoned him among the sophists. Specifically, in Plato's dialogue Protagoras, the sophist Protagoras lists Iccus alongside Homer, Hesiod, Simonides, Orpheus, Musaeus, Herodicus, Agathocles tutor of Damon, and as fellow sophists who chose to present themselves as poets, athletes, or musicians for fear of public disapproval.