Why? The Science of Athletics

CONSIDERATIONS IN RELATION TO COMPETITION 133 traffic the paths of the nerve impulses leading from the nerve-centres to the locomotor muscles. Practice of that kind results in the elimination of conflicting impulses, the contraction of antagonistic muscles that block the movement by their interference and bring a strained look to the athlete's face. That is part of the general and specialized training which creates athletic efficiency. The formal movements, or exercises, practised just before a competition a:r;e the part of the limbering-up process which gives the required temporary increase in efficiency. ' So many strains and injuries in competition are due to clumsiness and imperfect muscular control in a time of athletic stress that indirect training of the muscular system by means of form-exercises is absolutely essential, so that the muscles may be made quick and ready to meet all demands. The formal movements are of such a nature that they imitate the activity for which the athlete is preparing, and their chief purpose is to stabilize that co-ordination of muscular action which he has built up during the long process of training. If an analogy is required it can be found in the actor who runs through his part and refreshes his memory concerning his cues just before going on the stage. A hurdler sitting down on the ground with his legs in the "three right angles" position and then bending his trunk forward from the waist, while he thrusts forward the hand until it passes the outstretched foot of the other leg, is not only stretching himself admirably, he is also reproducing the position he will be in at the middle stage of clearance action. The pole vaulter is in the habit of practising several pole-plantings at a walk before actually competing ; javelin and discus throwers and shot putters all, if they are wise, practise the evolutions of their event in slow time, before taking a few light throws or puts as a preliminary to competition. By these means a man not only warms up his muscles,