76 Life and Health 



calls into action a wide combination of muscles. This 

 accomplishment, so easily learned, should be a part of our 

 education, as it may be the means of saving one's own life 

 or that of a companion. 



In many respects rowing is one of the most perfect exer- 

 cises at our command. It expands the chest, strengthens 

 the body, and gives tone to the muscles of the abdomen. 

 It is an admirable exercise for girls and women. 



110. The Use of the Bicycle. The bicycle is at once the 

 most useful and the most attractive machine ever devised 

 for use and pleasure. Nothing has ever approached the 

 wheel in tempting persons of all ages and occupations to 

 go out of doors and take vigoious exercise. 



Bicycling does not bring into active use the leg muscles 

 alone. It also produces a substantial increase in the cir- 

 cumference of the chest. It causes the arms and forearms 

 to grow firmer and the muscles of respiration to become 

 stronger and larger. In fact, the muscles of the whole 

 body seem to improve in tone with this form of exercise. 



111. Outdoor Games and Physical Education. While 

 outdoor games are not necessary to maintain health, yet 

 we can scarcely overestimate the value and usefulness of 

 baseball, football, tennis, golf, and croquet in the physical 

 development of young people. When played in modera- 

 tion and under suitable conditions, they are most useful 

 and beneficial exercises. They are played in the open air, 

 and demand a great variety of vigorous muscular move- 

 ment, with a considerable amount of skill and adroitness of 

 action. These games not only involve healthful exercise, 

 but tend to develop those manly and wholesome qualities 

 which are essential to success in life. 



112. Physical Exercises in School. Physical exercises 

 of some sort should be provided for pupils in our schools, 



