Modern Athletics 1868

72 MODERN ATHLETICS. with different temperaments. If he bestout and inclined to make flesh, a period of two months is hy no means too long; Lnt if, on the other hand, he is a thin and spare man, half that time willhe sufiicient, and a much more liberal diet may he allowed. If a bracing sea-side air is not attainable, the next best is thaoft any country place which is healthy and lies high. This, however, is only available by those whose time is' not otherwise em­ ployed, whereas the greater number of our modern ama­ teurs are engaged in business in London, and other large cities. These of course are obliged to train under great difficulties, and deserveall the more credit for doing so. The usual course of proceeding on commencing training, is to physic ma an, in order to " clear him out." If, however, he hasbeen living tolerably steadily, andhis functions are regular, he does not require any medicine, which is in his case simply weakening, and there is much truth in the old proverb—"Throw physic to the dogs," when it can possiblybe dispensed with. Should the sub­ ject, however, require anymedicine, mild rhubarb pills are far better thancastor oil orEpsom salts, whichexhaust the constitution. Early rising is not advisable fora man in training, unless he haaslways been accustomed to it, as by doing so he becomes weary and jaded before the dayis over. From 6 A.M. to 7.30 A.M., according to habit and season, isthe best time for rising.After this a short walk, at an easy pace, should be taken before indulging in a swim, which is the best kind of bath if the weather be warm enough and available opportunities are at hand. Sea-bathing is the best, as it is mosrterengthening; and when that is not obtainable,ruanning stream or weir pool is preferable to a lakeor still water. Should the time of year be winter, or no opportunity of outdoor bathing be available, a cold spongebath at home shouldbe indulged in. It is a most popular error to let bthoedy cool down after exercise, before a bath; neither is itnecessary to dry the skin first, as so doing does not close the pores, which is effected by a cold bath only, as that shrinks the skin. Violent exercise ofany kind before breakfast onan empty stomach is most injurious; it wearies a man for the rest of the day. The use ofcold water, in thepresent days of almost general "tubbing," does not require advocating, nor is it needful to expose the erroneous idea that the free use of it produces colds and sore throats: it is just