180 



PHYSIOLOGY AND TEMPERANCE. 



exercises, to provide as carefully for the needs of the body as 

 of the mind. 



6. Gymnastic Training. The importance of physical as 

 well as mental training is being recognized at the present 

 time by the introduction into schools and colleges of syste- 

 matic drill, calisthenics, and various other forms of gymnastic 



exercises. The object 

 of physical culture is 

 threefold : To bring in- 

 to action muscles which 

 otherwise would be idle ; 

 to secure a symmetrical 

 development of the 

 whole body, with a per- 

 fect control of every 

 muscle, and to give 

 grace and freedom of 

 movement. 



There are various sys- 

 tems of gymnastics, but 

 the two which are re- 

 cognized as the great 

 systems are the German 

 and the Swedish. Modi- 

 fied forms of one or other 

 of these systems are 

 gradually being intro- 

 duced into the schools of Ontario. The scope of this work 

 does not allow a full description of any system. It may be 

 stated, however, that they not only secure physical training, 

 but as well a species of light mental exercise. The mind is 

 engaged as well as the body. The object is to make the 

 mind act quickly in conjunction with prompt motion. At 

 the word of command, a whole class performs certain move- 



54. A correct position at the school -desk, 

 with no undue strain on the spine. 



