Success in Athletics and how to obtain it

zo6 SUCCESS IN ATHLETICS rubber to absorb the concussion when the foot is placed down upon the road. (h) Walkers' shoes should closely resemble those of the Marathon runner, and must be easy enough to allow the foot to be perfectly spread out when it is placed on the ground. (i) The cross-country runners' shoes should be of stout light leather, cut high to support the ankles, and should fit the foot fairly closely to prevent grit working into the shoes and galling the feet ; they should have low heels, and be fitted with short sharp spikes in the soles. All shoes should be made to measure. Toe-socks of wash-leather should always be used to save the toes from getting rubbed and sore. 7· The Blanket-coat.-It is essential that the athlete should have a good warm coat, reaching right down to the heels, to keep the legs warm while waiting for a competition; failing a blanket-coat, a long dressing– gown is a good substitute. It is of the utmost importance that the limbs should be kept thoroughly warm, for if the muscles are allowed to become chilled, they will not perform their functions properly when called upon for a sudden effort, and a strain is likely to result. (NoTE.-In the early stages, when the weather is cold, fairly thick shorts, a high-necked sweater, and long warm stockings should b~ worn to guard against chills.) The rest of the athlete's equipment consists of a pair of flesh-gloves, spike-protectors, and corks. 1. Flesh-gloves.- These are invaluable, and should always be taken on the ground when the athlete goes out for competition.