Gladiators in ancient Rome were primarily sourced from three groups: slaves (including prisoners of war), criminals condemned to fight, and volunteers who signed contracts to become gladiators12. Upon entering a gladiator school (ludus), recruits underwent a medical examination to ensure they were fit for training3.
Training took place in specialized schools, where gladiators lived under strict discipline. Training was overseen by instructors called doctores, often retired gladiators specializing in specific combat styles34. Early training focused on fitness and combat technique using wooden weapons heavier than those used in the arena, to build strength and reduce injury risk534. Training also included learning how to die with honor, as Roman audiences expected gladiators to display bravery even in defeat3.
Life expectancy for gladiators was short. The average age at death was around 27 years, with many dying younger6. Most fought only two or three times per year, and surviving three to five years was considered doing well62. Many did not survive past their first year, but skilled fighters could sometimes buy or be awarded their freedom after several years in the arena67.
Social status varied:
Most gladiators were slaves or prisoners of war with no personal freedom12.
Volunteers (known as auctorati) signed contracts that temporarily stripped them of legal rights, making them, for the duration, the property of the lanista (school owner)1.
Gladiators were considered infames, a class of social outcasts, regardless of origin12.
Personal lives: Despite their low social status, some gladiators had wives or lovers. Archaeological finds, like the remains of a woman with gladiators in Pompeii, suggest relationships and even marriages occurred8. Some gladiators were popular with women, including those from the Roman elite8.
As gladiators aged, their chances of survival in the arena decreased, especially past age 306. Those who survived and were freed (often awarded a wooden sword called a rudis) could retire and pursue other careers, though most did not live to old age67. Occasionally, retired gladiators became trainers (doctores) in the schools34.
In summary:
Most gladiators were slaves or POWs, some were volunteers
Trained in schools with strict discipline and specialized coaching
Average life expectancy was about 27 years
Some had wives or lovers, but were social outcasts
Few survived to old age; some retired and became trainers