200 THE HOME, FARM AND BUSINESS CYCLOPAEDIA. 



standstill, just keeping way enough to prevent the'machine falling over, 

 as, if you attempt it when going at all quickly, you will have to run by 

 its side after you are off, which is a difficult feat for any but a skilful 

 rider. 



The great advantage of getting off in this way is that, with practice, 

 you can choose your own time, which is very useful when an obstacle 

 suddenly presents itself, as in turning a corner ; and in getting off the 

 other way you are liable to lose time in feeling for the step. 



There are different styles of riding, and of course at first you are glad 

 to be able to get along in any way you can ; but when you come to have 

 any command over your machine, and have time to think about style, you 

 cannot do better than take for your model some graceful rider whose 

 upright and graceful seat gives an impression of quiet power. Very 

 different is the appearance presented by some well-known riders, who 

 although going at really good speed, present a painful appearance, hang- 

 ing forwards over the handles as if about to topple over, and favouring- 

 the beholders with such a variety of facial contortions. 



HINTS ON TRAINING. It is very difficult to give any rules that will 

 apply to all, as constitutions differ so widely; but the simple rules of 

 regular diet, rest, and exercise will apply to every one, whether they are 

 going, as the saying is, " to race for a man's life," or merely trying to get 

 themselves into the best frame of body to endure moderate exertion. 

 The daily use of the cold bath, or tepid if necessary, cannot be too strongly 

 insisted upon ; and also early rising and going to rest ; and the avoidance 

 of all rich viands, such as pork, veal, duck, salmon, pastry, etc., etc. Beef, 

 mutton, fowls, soles, and fish of similar kind, should form the principal 

 diet. The severity of the rules of professional training has been much 

 relaxed of late years, and many things, such as vegetables, stimulants 

 in great moderation, etc., are now allowed, which before were rigidly 

 excluded. 



In training for any special effort, of course it is necessary to have pro- 

 fessional assistance ; but with moderate attention to diet and regimen,, 

 any one may soon get himself in to good condition, and particularly if he 

 becomes an habitual bicycle-rider. 



