PHYSICAL EXERCISES A BENEFIT TO HARRIERS

Southland Times, Issue 24153, 15 June 1940, Page 16

PHYSICAL EXERCISES A BENEFIT TO HARRIERS

By

WHISTLE

There is something about the thought of physical exercises that does not appeal to most athletes. There are many reasons for this apparent apathy but the most common is that they do not care to indulge in “jerks” just for the sake of building health. However, a moment’s reflection will show that, to be thoroughly fit, an athlete must submit to a certain amount of physical exercise.

There are few sports in which every important muscle of the body is brought into action. When a man starts activity in a new type of sport he usually has trouble in mastering it because of stiffness, weakness or clumsiness. It therefore becomes necessary to practice exercises which will aid in the development of flexibility and strength. Most sports require that attention be directed to the development of certain parts of the body and distance running is no exception. In planning his exercises the' distance runner should pay special attention to the development of the muscles of the foot, leg and abdomen. A most important point in the performance of “physical jerks” is to remember to breathe deeply while doing all exercises. Apart from the attainment of good physical condition other qualities such as poise, ease of movement, symmetry of body and agility in action are to be acquired from regular and systematic exercise.

EXERCISE TO MUSIC The following series of exercises will be found beneficial by all athletes. They may be made less tedious by doing them to music. Their performance to the accompaniment of a rhythmic tune will aid in building up rhythm of movement. Take a standing position with the hands raised above the head, bend forward, keeping the knees stiff and touch the floor. When able to touch with the finger tips, try to touch with the knuckles and finally with hands flat. Stand with feet apart, arms raised sideways, bend sideways as Jar as possible, first to the right and then to the left. From a standing position perform the high kick, keeping the legs straight with toe pointed; try each time for height. This is a good “limbering up” exercise. Stand erect, lift knees up high and execute the stationary run. Begin slowly and gradually increase the speed; the elbow should be held close to the body and the arms should drive straight ahead to shoulder-height; the backward swing of the arms should end at the hip. Take a prone position face downwards, hands and feet close together. This is the famous “push-up.” Raise the body to the full extent of the arms and then lower till chest and chin almost touch the floor.

Lie flat on the back with arms by the sides. Begin by raising the right leg as far as possible, keeping the leg straight with to; pointed; as the right leg is lowered raise the left leg and alternate in this maner. Finally raise both legs together a number of times. From a position on the back, raise the legs and hips off the floor supporting them with the elbows. With legs in the perpendicular position begin to move them as if cycling. Increase the

speed and continue for two minutes. Stand with the legs together, hands on hips. Bend knees to a full squat, keeping the weight on the toes. While in the squatting position, rock backward and forward on the toes. This exercise strengthens the ankles, toes and general leg development. Start by doing each exercise about six times, gradually working up to at least a dozen repetitions. Finally, remember to breathe deeply during all the exercises; there is no better aid to physical development.

INVERCARGILL CLUB NOTES Last Saturday members of the Invercargill Club were guests of Mr and Mrs Alex Derbie and the afternoon was a thoroughly enjoyable one. Following the run, a social hour and tea saw the pack members maintaining their reputations as trenchermen. As president of the club, Mr Derbie expressed the hope that all members would give their club loyal support and so help to keep the harrier sport alive through the present difficult times. While the writer does not wish to keep repeating the subject of training, the members of the club are not showing either loyalty or keenness in this

respect. Mr J. Chaplin is giving up his leisure to devote time to coaching but the attendances at training sessions have not been encouraging. The few keen men who have been training will reap the benefit later in the season. P. Giles is the latest member of the club to offer his services to his country. Giles showed great promise as a harrier and was one of the best of the younger runners. Al! his club-mates will wish him the best of luck in the Army. Today the pack is to travel to Greenhills for the annual run in that district. Although not as numerous as in former years, there are still several keen club members at Greenhills and a run from the township is always a popular outing. It is ideal country for harriers and the older members have vivid memories of many enjoyable runs in this vicinity. It is hoped there will-be a good attendance for today's fixture. The pack will travel by the train leaving town at 1.15 p.m.