Running Recollections and How to Train

143 skilful trainerwill, therefore, oonstautlj study the progress of his art, by observing the eftects of the processes separately, and in combination. It is impossible to fix a precise period from the com­ pletion of the training process, as it depends upon the condition ofthe pedestrian; but fromtwo to three months, in most cases, will be sufficient, especially if he be in tolerable conditionat the commencement, andpossessed of sufficient perseverance and courage to submitcheerfully to the privations and hardships towhich he must unavoidably be subjected. The criterion by which it may be known whether a man be in good condition, or, what is the same thing, properly trained, is the state of the skin, which becomes smooth, elastic, and well coloured, or transparent. The flesh is also firm, and the person trained feels himself light andfull of spirits. But in the progressof the training, his condition may be as well ascertained by the effect of the sweats, which cease to reduce his weight, and by the manner in which he performs one mile at the top of his speed, as to walk a hundred ;and, therefore, if he performs this short distance well, it may be concluded that his condition is perfect, orthat hehas derived allthe advantages which can possibly result fromthe training process.