Jean le Meingre, more commonly known as Boucicaut, was marshal of France and governor of Languedoc and Guyenne in the fourteenth century. A knight, councilor to the king of France, and chamberlain of the king, he was known throughout France and England for his military feats. This contemporary description of his physical abilities illustrates the strength and coordination necessary for a successful medieval soldier.

"He executed a somersault fully armed, except for his basinet, [a light steel helmet], and whilst dancing he was armed with a mail coat. Item, he leapt onto a courser without placing his foot in the stirrup, fully armed. Item, with a strong man mounted on a great horse; he leapt from the ground onto his shoulders by taking his sleeve in one hand and without any other hold. Item, placing one hand...