PHYSICAL TRAINING SIMPLIFIED

A British Library reprint of a physical fitness manual from the Edwardian Age which is both refreshingly practical and amusingly eccentric. 'The exercises herewith given are so arranged as to meet the needs of the young, the middle-aged, and the aged of both sexes. One is never too old to reap some benefit. The system is complete in itself as it brings into healthful action every joint and every muscle of the body, and all this without the use of apparatus. It will give strength, health and confidence.' Beginning with how to stand, the correct carriage of the body and how to retain it: 'Carry your heart high is metaphorical; but to carry your stomach high is practical.' Stand against the wall, first touching the heels, then as much of the body as possible, drawing back the head to the wall, with the chin slightly drawn in. You will observe that the chest is expanded and in a firm position muscularly, thereby enabling you to retain the chest position independently of the breath.' How to walk, sit, rest, sleeping at will, self-magnetising, active chest, breathing through the diaphragm and abdomen, costal, dorsal and belt breathing, the shoulder brace, and the freedom of the joints of the fingers, wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck with very careful twists and gentle turns and a word about muscles, thighs, and elasticity of one's step, there are suggestions for gentle exercises using the back of a chair and how many repetitions. Devoted to the sedentary workforce, dynamic good health is the aim, not giant muscles, and much attention is given to the crucial abilities of relaxation, flexibility and good breathing as well as specific instructions for strengthening of the arms, legs, hips and shoulders. 74pp, line art.