1938-39

57
0
GAMES AND PHYSICAL FITNESS
being the performance of a definite number of physical exercises
for a given period each day. This has much to recommend it
and is within the reach of all. Such exercise should preferably be
taken in the morning and should be done in the open air, if possible,
or at any rate near an open window where the air is fresh. There
are many systems of exercise to choose from, all probably equally
good and depending principally on regularity and progression for
their benefit. Even. ten or fifteen minutes spent in this way will
benefit every individual.
The player of games or athlete should endeavour to .select, as
far as possible, the exercise in keeping with the nature of the
game which he plays. For example, the three-quarter at Rugby
or the forward at Association Football require mainly quick exercises
which require co-ordination, while the Rugby forward must include
in his daily table exercises to improve his stamina and endurance.
Every game and sport can be analysed and the most beneficial exer-
cises for'them can be thought out. It is essential, however, that all
muscles should be brought into play and exercised in the daily period,
and that up-to-date methods of breathing in which the diaphragm
is lowered in inspiration and raised in expiration are practised. .
Walking is perhaps one of the best general exercises and is within
the reach of all. It is important to maintain a good carriage and
regularity of pace, as otherwise full benefit is not derived from
this form of exercise. Running is also good in moderation, but a
danger of running is that it tends to become mechanical and bore-
some. A great point to remember when taking exercise is that
the mind should be kept fixed on the work being done, and that every
effort should be made to obtain the fullest benefit, both from the
mental and bodily point of view.
The Physical Training Tables
in
use in the Army system are a
good foundation for any form of daily exercise. They are designed
to stimulate the mind and exercise the body thoroughly and at
the same time provide a definite progression through the tables.
From the exercises laid down a selection can be made to suit
individual cases, and it is possible to deduce many other exercises.
The specialist who wishes to go into strict training for a particular
form of game or sport, such as rowing, boxing, athletics, etc., is
advised to consult one of the numerous technical books dealing with
their particular game. The Army Physical Training Staff can
usually recommend the right book and will always help in advising
the individual.
In conclusion, it should be understood that physical fitness does
not come to the individual unaided and unsought. He who would
become and remain physically fit can only do so by the exercise of
his own will and by his own self-effort. It is worth it every time,
and the feeling of mental and physical well-being which pervades
the physically fit man is a thing to be envied. Bear in mind that
to get the fullest enjoyment from any game or sport the individual
must be physically fit to indulge in that game or sport.