Sex efficiency through exercises : special physical culture for women / by Th. H. van de Velde ; [photos, by E. Steinemann].

possible, moving slowly. Then again, slowly outwards so far as possible. Note.—As described above, this movement is wholly passive. It may, however, be tried in an active modification though a loose and easy support at the ankle is advisable in that case too. If this support is dispensed with, the leg is not lifted from the floor or couch. This exercise may be so adapted and modified by a greater or lesser degree of exertion on the patient's part and help from the instructress that it may be continued throughout pregnancy. (10) Foot Exercise {passive) (Fig. 28). The woman sits on a chair with a back to it. The instruc- tress sits beside her also on a chair. The patient lays one knee across the instructor's lap ; the instructress clasps the patient's leg at the ankle, lifts it slightly and moves the foot up and down. Fig. 28 shows the foot at its fullest stretch. The foot is then moved from side to side. Finally, a circular movement is made outwards and then inwards and then in the opposite direction. Note.—Here, too, all modifications and gradations between passivity and active exertion in resistance to pressure are possible ; therefore, this exercise is suited for the whole duration of pregnancy. (11) Leg Relaxation {passive) (Fig. 29). Patient and gymnastic instructress seated as before. The patient lays one leg across the knee of the instructress. The latter lifts the leg high at the ankle and then lowers it. Note.—This may be preceded by repeated passive flexion and extension of the leg. Here, too, there is the possibility of modification and adaptation as in Exercises 9 and 10. Note on the Exercises of the Second Group.—In the aforesaid modifications, between passivity and degree of exertion, the loosening or relaxation of the joints must not be overdone. The active movements are best interspersed between a larger number of completely passive exercises. The patient always appreciates this method. There is great scope here for sympathy and intuition on the part of the instructress.