Bredin on Running & Training

CHAPTER IV. TRAINING. CoRRECTLY to train the human body in order that it may be brought into the very best condition to undergo severe physical exertion is a much more difficult task than is frequently supposed. No form of sport requires a more careful and systematic preparation than that indulged in by the runner. The strain caused to the heart, even in a race of a few seconds' duration, is excessive, owing to so many parts of the body being called into more or less violent use. Athletes are apt to conclude from the fact that they first experience fatigue in their arms or legs, that these consequently are the weakest parts of their system, and those that most require strengthening. No doubt they are correct in so far as when the heart becomes overworked it immediately makes this state apparent in the least muscular members. But as the primary cause is due to exertion affecting the heart itself, training is under– taken to gradually accustom that organ to withstand violent exercise by constant athletic practice, thereby attaining its utmost healthy limit of strength and endur– ance. The additional strength conferred on the muscles generally by a course of training is really of secondary importance. No one with any pronounced weakness of heart should compete in foot-races, although I am R.T. E