Page:How to Get Strong (1899).pdf/260

 a four-mile pace, with the step inclined to be short, the knees bent but little, and the foot pushing harder than usual as it leaves the ground—this will be found to bring the legs and loins no inconsiderable exercise; all, in fact, that they will probably need. If, shortly before bedtime each evening, the youth, after he has been working as above, say for a month, will, in light clothes and any old and easy shoes, run a mile in about seven minutes and a half; and, a little later, under the seven minutes; or, three nights a week, make the distance two miles each night; always breathing through the nose, there will soon be a life and vigor in his legs which used to be unknown; and if six months of this work brings a whole inch more of girth of thigh and of calf, it is only what might have been expected.

For still more rapid and decided advance, an hour at the gymnasium during the latter part of the morning; half of it at the rowing-weights, so thickening and stoutening the back; and the other half at "dipping" and other half-arm work on the parallel bars—so spreading and enlarging the chest and stoutening the back-arms—these will increase the development rapidly; and will sharpen the appetite at a corresponding rate. But it must be real work; and no dawdling or time lost.

Few young men in any active employment, however, can spare this morning hour. Still, without it, if they will follow up the before-breakfast work; the walking in the fashion named; and the running; they will soon find time enough for this much, and most satisfactory results in the way of improved health and increased strength as well. Indeed, it will, for most young men prove about the right amount to keep them toned up and ready for their day's Work. If they desire great development in any special line, let them select some of