h pertain to our
physical, moral, and mental natures, subdue our passions, and nature
will bestow upon us her richest rewards of health, beauty, and
happiness.

CYCLING.

[Illustration]

If one were asked what athletic exercise deserves to be the most popular
in America to-day, the answer would of necessity be cycling. The bicycle
is being used by people of all ages and conditions of health in daily
life; its hygienic value as a means to healthy exercise cannot be
overestimated. In this, as in everything else, immoderation is to be
condemned, particularly where persons have not had sufficient training
to take long "spins," or attempt racing. Beginners should ride only 10
or 12 minutes at a time--resting then to permit the circulation to
become equalized. In all cyclists, at all ages, in veteran riders as
well as those not practiced in the art, there is, in the beginning of
each attempt, a quickened circulation; the pulse is full and bounding,
and rarely falls under a hundred pulsations per minute. So long as the
exercise is continued, an increase of cardiac motion is observable, and
a vigorous circulation is kept up. This accounts for the astounding
journeys a fully trained cyclist can accomplish, and also for his
endurance without sleep. In spite of the quickened motion of the heart,
rarely have riders been known to grow giddy or show symptoms of cardiac
embarrassment. A good rider may climb a hill without trouble, yet be
unable to climb a flight of stairs without breathlessness and
palpitation. Bicycle riding as a means for acquiring strength and vigor,
improving the circulation and developing the respiratory organs, is
unexcelled. Fast riding, or "scorching," among those not used to
physical exertion, and leaning over the handle-bars so as to ride in a
stooping position, are to be heartily condemned. The latter prevents the
lungs from getting their full expansion, and cultivates a tendency to
round shoulders. Men or women suffering from diseases of the sexual
organs should, before riding, consult the physician having their case in
charge.

[Illustration: Fig. 112.]

RIDING ON HORSEBACK is a fine exercise for both sexes. It promotes
digestion, improves the circulation, and expands and develops the
respiratory organs. The pure, fresh air, pleasant scenery, and
pleasurable excitement, impart renewed vigor to the equestrian. In the
Southern States it is a universal accomplishment, and children are
taught to r