TESTS OF SKILL.
Base-ball, rowing, foot-ball, hare and hounds, skating, lacrosse, lawn tennis and similar tests of skill have become so popular in this country that the young need to be restrained from indulging too much in them. After one's school-days are over and a young man takes up some sedentary occupation, he should manage to gain exercise every day.
The gymnasiums afford the best forms of exercise, but boys and girls can walk, run, and use some of the simpler forms of gymnastics at their homes. They should make sure they breathe pure air, that they do not form bad habits, and are regular in everything daily required of them.
What form of exercise is best? What should be guarded against? Where should it be? What is preferable?
What games are popular? What should every boy do, after his school-days are over?
What of the gymnasiums? What can be done by all boys and girls? Of what should they make sure?
CHAPTER VIII.
THE ART OF SWIMMING.
Every boy and girl should learn to swim. Instances are likely to arise, where a knowledge of the art will not only enable you to save your own life, but that of some dear friend.
When ready to take your first lesson in swimming, plunge into the water until the head and body are cooled. Then, standing where the water reaches your waist, lie down gently on your face, head erect as if walking, with the mouth just above the surface. Lift your feet from the bottom and strike them out in imitation of a frog. At the same instant or a second later, throw your arms, palms outward, from the front of your breast, drawing them in and striking out as before.
You will fail a good many times before you learn to swim, but do not give up. You will perhaps swallow some water, and in spite of all you can do, your head will drop more than once under the surface; but, if you will keep trying, you will soon find yourself able to make two, three or more strokes, before you sink. A little practice will complete your mastery of the art.
It is well to use helps at the beginning. A friend may hold up your chin, or a light float may be fastened behind your shoulders. The body of a person is very little heavier than water, and a slight exertion, rightly directed, will keep it afloat for hours.