THE MUSCLES. 31 



becomes hotter, as well as the parts beneath it, and the ap- 

 petite and power of digestion are increased. An increased 

 exhalation from the lungs and skin purifies the current of 

 the circulation, and the body as a whole thrives under its 

 influence. 



16. The immediate effect of exercise, however, is upon 

 the muscles themselves; for by use they become firm and 

 large, and increase in power. If we examine a muscle thus 

 improved by exercise, we find that its fibres have become 

 larger and more closely blended together, that its color is 

 of a darker red, and that the supply of blood-vessels has 

 increased. Without exercise the muscle appears thin, 

 flabby, and pale. On the- other hand, excessive exercise, 

 without sufficient relaxation, produces in the muscle a 

 condition not very different from that which follows dis- 

 use. The muscle is worn out faster than nature builds it 

 up, and it becomes flabby, pale, and weak. 



17. Violent exercise is not beneficial; and spasmodic 

 efforts to increase the muscular strength are not calculated 

 to secure such a result. Strength is the result of a gradual 

 growth, and is most surely acquired if the exercise be 

 carried to a point short of fatigue, and after an adequate 

 interval of rest. To gain the most beneficial results, the 

 exercise should be at regular hours, and during a regular 

 period. The activity of the exercise, and the time de- 

 voted to it must vary, of course, with the strength of the 

 individual, and should be carefully measured by it. 



18. Different Modes of Exercise. There are very 

 few who have not the power to walk. There is required 

 for it no expensive apparatus, nor does it demand a period 

 of preliminary training. Walking may be called the uni- 

 versal exercise. "With certain foreign nations, the English 



16. General effect upon the muscles? Special effect? Effects of inaction? 

 Of excessive exercise ? 



17. Of violent and spasmodic efforts? Strength, how attained? Give the 

 particulars. 



1 8 . What may walking be called ? What further is said of walking ? 



