Athletic Sports (extract)

The Physical Proportions of the Typical Man our inclinations, we are likely to enter into it with lessspirit, and consequently to reap less benefit. But let it be understood that exercise itself is beneficial, however dis­ agreeable or distasteful. If the effort is made, the physiological effects of exercise are realized. Old tissue is broken down and new tissue demanded to take its place, and in answer to this demand the vital functions are increased. All physical ex­ ercises, however pleasant at first, tend to become irksome and distasteful when pur­ sued systematically day after day; but the very energy that one isobliged to put forth in overcoming this distaste is a wholesome discipline. Having recognized the fact that physical exercise is necessary, and that the exercise is best which best meets one's individual needs, a man should pursue it with all the energy that he is capable of throwing into any otherduty. By so doing, the training of the will is added to the training of the body, and the lesson learned in abnegation and self-mastery contributes the most important elements to the forma­ tion of character. Add to these attain­ ments a correct method of working anda healthy habit of living, and the young man will have had the best kind of preparatory training for the business of life. 24