This exercise gives control over the muscles of the
leg and balancing powers, and increases the ability
to adjust the muscles so as to maintain the equilibrium.
This position calls for the separation of the feet
sideways about a foot and a half apart (Fig. 10).
Now assume the “Arms Cross” attitude, and
then, turning the body at the hips, bring first the
right hand down to touch the floor, at the same time
bending the right knee and keeping the left knee straight.
Come back to the regular position again.
[Illustration: Fig. 10.—Stride,
first position]
Now bend the left knee, put down the left hand and
touch the ground, turning the body at the hips. (See
Fig. 11.)
[Illustration: Fig. 11.—Stride,
final position]
In both of these movements keep the other arm extended
backward. This produces a graceful exercise which
is excellent work for the muscles of the body and
shoulders. In the “Daily Dozen” this
is called “The Weave.”
Assuming the “Stride Position,” advance
the right foot about a foot; then, with the arms in
“Cross” position once more, bend the forward
knee and touch the ground with the hand, at the same
time keeping the other arm extended backward.
Reverse this.
This movement is also excellent for the muscles of
the body and back.
Stand sideways to the wall about two feet and a half
away; now extend both arms in the “Cross”
position, and then lift the foot that is farthest
away from the wall and lean over until the extended
fingers of the other hand touch the wall; push back
into original position. Move out a little farther
from the wall and repeat. Do this until the distance
is as far as can comfortably be recovered by pushing
the hand against the wall.
Reverse this exercise, so as to do it with the other
arm.
This is an excellent workout for the shoulder muscles
as well as for the forearms, and gives some exercise
to the body.
Standing erect at “Attention,” step to
the right with the right foot about six inches, merely
touching the toe to the ground, and bring the foot
back to the “Attention” position.
The object of this movement is to give control of
the muscles of the leg in addition to the balancing
of the body. Care should be taken to keep the
body absolutely motionless while the exercise is in
progress. The toe is only touched to the ground
and the foot is brought immediately back into position.
This movement has a quieting effect after more violent
exercising. It can be done either sideways, forward,
or back.
