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

I should be the last to deny that there are many exercises of utility in making the pelvic zone mobile and supple in the programme of modern gymnastics and physical culture. The same is the case in the particular branch of physical culture which requires the use of apparatus (saddle, parallel bars, ropes and rings, etc.). It would exceed our space limits to describe or even enumerate these ; but I would pay special tribute to the Swedish system ; their exercises on the bars, as shown in Schliiter's " School of Rhythmical Gym- nastics/^15* show the remarkable results which can be achieved in promoting or almost creating agility and elasticity of body. But it is easily possible to go too far in this direction, especially having regard to the special structure of the female pelvis. Certain striking exercises and attitudes on the bar apparatus are appropriate and helpful for professional acrobats and dancers, but not for the generality of women. Exercises on these appliances have been designed and developed by male gymnasts, and are entirely suitable in promoting muscular strength and enterprise, but they should be carefully sifted and adapted for girls and women, and only carried out under the super- vision of an instructress who possesses a thorough knowledge of anatomy. Until now, this has not been the case in Central Europe, at least, and the women and girls who are the enthusiastic pupils of trained gymnasts and powerful men try to emulate their teachers' proficiency and often injure themselves in the process. Fortunately, the gymnastic societies and clubs are now beginning to realise that swinging and climbing on the bars tend to harden the abdominal muscles unduly and dangerously in women. Schliiter's book comprises numerous and varied pelvic movements corresponding to some of those detailed in the present study—together with suitable musical accompani- ments. The pelvis is given due importance as the centre of action and attention, but there are certain exercises in Schliiter's book which seem to me unsuitable, being far too vehement and abrupt. This objection will be considered later among the " Contraindications."