46 



THE MUSCLES 



and pulleys, without elastic material. The latter kind is 

 better, inasmuch as the movement is even and the action of 



the muscle steady, while with 

 rubber bands the farther they are 

 stretched the greater is the exer- 

 tion. No apparatus yet invented 

 answers its purpose so well as the 

 "chest weight" (see Fig. 17). By 

 its use all the prominent muscles 

 of the body are easily exercised. 

 No instruction is necessary and 

 the space occupied is easily 

 spared. A person is obliged only 

 to grasp the handles and then 

 follow the simple directions given 

 to bring into action whatever 

 muscles or groups of muscles he 

 wishes to exercise. The weight 

 can be changed to suit the 

 strength of the one exercising. 

 Illustrations showing a few of 

 the positions and movements that are recommended with one 

 of the chest weights, are given in the Appendix, page 304. 



28. In addition to the movements mentioned many others 

 might be employed, varying with the particular muscles or 

 parts that require to be exercised. Combinations of cords and 

 pulleys suitable for particular cases can be made, and the 

 resistance of the weights adjusted to the needs of the weakly 

 and the young, as well as to the most robust. These exercises 

 are by no means limited to those who are in health and who 

 resort to them as a relaxation from long study or sedentary 

 occupations. Persons who are not strong, who cannot take 

 advantage of school drill, or who are convalescing from sick- 

 ness, may, under suitable conditions, be especially benefited by 

 them. Not all the movements should be tried at first, but, on 

 the contrary, there should be a careful selection of two or 

 three that seem to be best suited to the needs of the patient. 



FIG. 17. THE "CHEST WEIGHT" 



