Modern Athletics 1868

82 MODERN ATHLETICS. therefore, has possessed himself of both wind and good style, he should commence fast walking in ordetro obtain speed. This desideratum is acquired bwyalking shortdis­ tances, beginningwith a quarter of a milea,t his very best speed. As soon as he can accomplish this in anything under two minutes, he may gradually increase the dis­ tance from day to day; but must be particularly careful not to continue long distancesi,f the watch indicates that he is at all affectedwith "the slows." Nothing makes a rnm-nlose speed so much as walking long distances at a slow rate. On commencing training, thenumber of aches and pains allover the bodyare legion. This is causedby the fact mentioned in the previous chapter, thata set of muscles, different to those in previous use, have to be gradually builtup and brought intoplay. In fact, owing to the severe exertionevery part ofthe body is obligedto undergo in fast walking, there niso other kind of exercise wherein a beginner has to endure somuch physical pain. The two commonest ailments which a walker suffers from, are shin-soreness and stitch. The former isoften felt by ordinary walkers alonga road or street; and in this case is very frequently causedby wearing heavy boots, a great drag on the shin bones; or by wove drawers which fit tight to the leg and thereby hetahte muscles.* The only way to cure shin-soreness is to stop for a few minutes when it comes on very severely, and rub the legs well. Stitch seldom comeson if a man is incondition and good health. It is best got ridof by walking indomitably on and trying to forget its existence. A man cafmot start too fast in a walking race, whatevetrhe distance may be. He should get off'at his very utmost speethde, reby getting through the "aches and pains" stage the sooner, after which he blows freely, goes with more ease to himself; and, since the action then becomes mechanical, can generally keep on at the same rate till nature is ex­ hausted. Of course, this is presuming that hies in first- rate condition, without whicah man cannot contend in a walking race with any prospect of success. The most trying part ofa walking race is probablybetween the end * Thisdescription ofdrawers isthe most unhealthythat can be worn for the above reason ;besides being most dangerous in case of the wearer fallinginto thewater, which collects inthem all downthe legs;and, being unable to escape at the bottom, renders swimming very difficult.