SWIMMING FOR GIRLS.

Thames Star, Volume IX, Issue 3033, 4 November 1878, Page 1

SWIMMING FOR GIRLS.

The public are continually reminded of the: numerous contrivances, rapports, stays, shoulder straps, etc., and the various exercises that are best calculated to .prevent round shoulders, a stooping, awkward gait, contracted chests, and so forth, but perhaps there is no kind of exercise for girls- more calculated to attain those desired objects than that of swimming. During the act of, swimming the. bead is thrown back, the chest well forward, while, the thoracic and respiratory muscles are in strong action, and both the, upper and lower extremities are brought into full play. Indeed, in a health-point of view, females would often have an advantage over the stronger sex, as, owing to the large amount of adipose tissue cohering their musc'e, and the com. parative smallness and lightness of their bones, they not only have greater powers of floatation than men, but as a rule can continue much longer in the water. They are, therefore, naturally qualified to become good swimmers; and Mr Mac-, gregor mentions that of a class of 30 girls, whose instruction commenced late last season, 25 were taught to swim in, six

lessons, and six of them won "prizes; It. is to be hoped, therefore, that girls will not be debarred from learning this graceful and healthful accomplishment either v through lack of baths or teachers.' Such "a practice is particularly called for at the present day, as a set-offagainst the growing tendency in the " girls of the period " to indulge in those literary and sedentary pursuits which are anything but favorable to the development of a healthy physique.--Medical Press and Circular.