HARRIERS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 22 May 1936, Page 3

HARRIERS

TO-MORROW’S RUN The Nelson Harrier Club’s weekly run will be held at Richmond to-morrow from the residence of Air A. Tanner, at 2.45 p.m. Members are notified to be at the Post Office, Nelson, at 1.45 p.m. HINTS BY AMERICAN COACH Lawson Robertson, famous American coach, has given several handy hints on cross-country running in one of his excellent publications. He writes: “A cross-country runner must always have perfect control over his body and legs. He must never allow his muscles to become tense, and should run in a condition as relaxed as possible. “This is sometimes difficult for the uninitiated when the terrain of the course is frequently severe. The runner will strike hollows in the ground, and in going up-hill and down-dale, perhaps over stony ground, the beginner is likely at first to keep his body unnecessarily tensed. "The proper cross-country stride is somewhat abbreviated, with the knee slightly bent and the heel touching the ground after the ball of the foot has made contact. Un mounting a hill, the stride must be considerably shortened and the body inclined forward. It is, of course, unwise to travel at the best pace while ascending the hill. “At the top of the incline the legs should be relaxed, and the relaxation should be emphasised by going back oil the heels for a few steps. This relieves the' pressure of the over-taxed Achilles’ tendon, which has been overworked during tlie climb. “While it is advisable to do considerable early preparation in lull climbing, both walking and running, it must be remembered that this form of exercise is severe if indulged in too frequently. “A cross-country runner must also be able to clear obstacles, ditches and fences without too much loss of time. Therefore, practice in this department should be included in the training programme. “Another thing to be remembered by cross-couiltry runners is the use bi proper wearing apparel to suit all-weather conditions. In cold weather the athlete must be careful to protect the arms, chest and back with the right covering. “On windy days, 1 would recommend the use of a newspaper under Ihe jersey as a protection for the lungs. ’