The Modern Method of Training for Running, Walking, Rowing & Boxing

12 KBDESTEIANISM. satisfactionto all concernedif he were to siro- mit to undergo a partial training, is a truth that ought to be tested by all who have any regard for continued good health. Were this system carried out to even a small extent, the physician would have cause to lament the decline of his practice, and the advertising quack become a nonentity. A start in the right direction has been made by the present popular volunteer rifleinstitution, the beneficial effectsof which have, at the present time, per­ formedsuch wonders towards the physicalim­ provementofthosewhohave thoroughlycarried out the movement; but notwithstandingall the benefits which may accrue from the requisite drill, still, unless with some knowledge of the proper systemoftraining, only a portionof the anticipated results will have been arrived at. The drill has taught the tyro obedience and the power of self-command, as well as kept him fromthe tavern,the cigar divan,the saloons, etc.; but still, without the knowledge to put into practice the system of training, ail these benefits will be of no avail. It is my fervent wish that in time there will be Colleges for Gymnasticand Athletic Sports throughout the United Kingdom, so that our youth who may not have opportunities of carrying out the systemin full detail may at least have a chance of arriving at some point of condition,if even remotefrom perfection. As a proofhow neces­ sary training is considered by the professional, it is only requisite to ask any pedestrian of INTHODTJCTION. 13 notefor his candid opinion to satisfythe most incredulous. The higher in the pedestrian grade the man may be to whom the question may be put the better, in consequence of his having gone through the whole performance, from novicehood upwards; and, in every in­ stance,it willbe found that more than one of his defeatswill be attributed to want of con­ dition(proper training) arising from neglectof work or other causes,such as carelessness in diet,want of practice, and, in some instances, from the neglect of the preceptsattempted to be inculcated by his trainer. Most of the above mistakes have arisen from overweening confidence in his own powers, or from under­ rating his adversaries' abilities. However willingand thoughtful he may have been,these contretemps have almost invariably been the fate of all our leading athletes, not only in the pedestriancircle, but in the ring, on the river, and in all sports in whicha great lead has ever beentaken by man. Hewill informthe querist that he will require from a month to two monthsfor his preparation, and if he has been out of practicefor some time, even more—thus showing to the dullest intellect the requisite time and attention needed; for if a man who has shone pre-eminent in the sphere he has chosenfor his exertions,and has had the benefit of previous trainings, must again undergo the same ordeal as heretofore, a man totally untrained must at least require the same pre­ paration,as well as agreater amount ofpractice,