British Manly Exercises

T H E H I G H L E A P . 19 the body, kept straight, is inclined a liltle forward ; and the arms are thrownin the direction ofthe leap, which in­ creases the impulse, preserves the balance, and may be useful in a fall.—(Plate III. Figure 1.) In descending, the body should be rather inclined for­ ward ; and the fall should take place on the forepart of the foot; for the direct descent in this leap, if not thus broken, would sendits shock from the heels to the spine and head, and might occasion injury. To perpendicularity in this leap, should be added lightness, so that scarcely any noise from the leap should be heard. This leap, without a run, may be practised at the height: 1st. Of the knees; 2dly. Of the middle of thethighs; 3dly. Of the hips ; 4thly. Of the lower ribs. With a Run, The run preceding the leap should never exceed ten paces. The distance between the point of springing and the cord, should equal half the cord's height from the ground. The view of the leaper should be directed first to the spot whence he is to spring; and the moment he has reached that, to the cord. The leaper shouldlearn to spring from either foot, and from both feet. The instant the spring is made, or (if it be made with