Athletics (British Sports Library)

138 ATHLETICS for style practically the whole time. Failing the assistance of an instructor the athlete must himself prepare a training schedule and stick to it. Pole vaulters and high jumpers must train only at such heights as they are absolutely sure of clearing ; but an occasional try-out for height is allowable, as it enables the athlete to see what sort of progress is being made. Javelin, discus, and hammer throwers must keep within the compass which allows them to retain the correct form. The '~moment the field events man discovers that .... style is being sacrificed to the expenditure of strength or speed, he must revert to light work for style. In this way it will be found that each week one can throw a little farther or jump better while still retaining one's style ; and so, by degrees, technique becomes second nature, and the maximum results of which one is physically capable are at last attained. Many field events men make the mistake of believing that they have only to practise actual throwing or jumping to attain proficiency. They are, however, strongly advised to study the re– mainder of this book dealing with track and cross– country athletics. It is essential that they should build up their stamip.a by long, strong work, and gain speed, fire, and " snappiness " by a certain amount of ~print work. For example.,· I know one