Page:Japanese Physical Training (Hancock).djvu/71

Rh hand is exercised by a rapid closing and opening of the fingers, the thumb at the instant of closing passing over the second and third fingers. In this work it is best to hold the arms out horizontally before the body, although it is sometimes of advantage to hold the arms in the other positions indicated in the foregoing descriptions of arm exercises.

Another form of hand work that is much employed consists of clasping the hands just before the waist. The fingers are tightly interlaced, with the left thumb crossing the right. The right hand is made to turn the left hand over as far as possible, and with a severe wrench. Then the left hand retaliates upon the right. All depends upon the tightness of the grip. The wrists are benefited almost as much as are the hands. The forearm receives some strengthening, while the muscles all the way up to the shoulder are developed in gradually decreasing degrees.

Of benefit to the hands and wrists, and, incidentally, to the arms, is the feat performed with the aid of a short bamboo pole. Any stout stick will answer the same purpose. The man