Success in Athletics and how to obtain it

TRAINING AND COMPETITION 223 In sprinting, always see that the holes are properly dug and well backed up, and that there are no in– equalities in the track over which you will have to run ; in other words, choose your "lane " carefully. Never lace your shoes tight until the last moment, wear a long coat to keep your legs warm, and, if the day is very cold, slip a pair of ordinary trousers on over your running-shorts ; these trousers can be removed at the last moment, and in the meantime they have served to keep your lower limbs thoroughly warm. While waiting for your turn to compete, it is as well to sit down and to stimulate the circulation of the blood by gently rubbing the limbs with flesh– gloves; but the athlete must not sit on damp ground. Before going out to run, and between your heats, always lie down; if it is warm and fine enough, do so in the open. While waiting his turn the jumper should never keep on his legs, but should sit down, with his coat wrapped well round him and his legs covered. Try not to think about the event until it is time to make the effort; a placid nerve is of the greatest value. Never be afraid to take trouble in making your own arrangements for fear of being laughed at ; it is better to be laughed at than to lose a competition. Before competition a sharp run, with knees well up as you stride, will serve to limber up the muscles and invigorate the nerve forces. Do the "limbering up" ' about half an hour before competition, and thereafter lie down and rest until you are wanted. Do not keep people waiting unnecessarily, but, re– member! it is better to keep others waiting than to be kept waiting by them.