HOW TO GET STRONG
now in action; and when, later on, they become strong, their owner will find how much easier it is to run than it used to be; and also that it has become more natural to stand erect. The rate of increase of these last two exercises may be about the same as the others.
There is not much left now of the ten minutes. Still, if the work has been pushed promptly forward, there may still be a little time. However, all three of the kinds of work suggested for the front thigh need not be practised at the one recess, any one sufficing at first.
With head again erect, and knees firm; hold the hands out at the sides and at arm's-length; close each hand firmly; as though trying to squeeze a rubber-ball, or other elastic substance. Beginning with twenty of these movements; fifty may be accomplished by the end of the fortnight; and, by their continuance, both the grip and the shape of the hand will be found steadily improving.
Clasp the hands together over the head. Now turn them over until the palms are upward, or turned towards the ceiling, and straighten the elbows until the hands are as high over the head as you can reach. While holding them in this position, be careful that they are not allowed to drop at all. Let the scholar march three or four times around the room in this position. It will soon be found that no apparatus whatever is necessary to get quite a large amount of exercise for the shoulders. In this way, while there is an unwonted stretching apart of the ribs, and opening up of the chest; the drawing in of the stomach and abdomen will be found to correct incipient chest-weakness; half-breathing; and any tendency towards indigestion.
Following up the method, now let the class form along the sides of the room, standing three feet apart,
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