The amount required depends upon the circumstances. Ordinarily, a few
minutes of exercise each day, supplemented with some walking and deep
breathing will suffice. About five minutes of vigorous exercise night
and morning are generally enough to keep a person in good physical
condition, if he is prudent otherwise.
Many strive to build up a great musculature. This is a mistake, unless
the intention is to become an exhibit for the sake of earning one's
living. Big muscles do not spell health, efficiency and endurance. Even
a dyspeptic may be able to build big muscles. What is needed for the
work of life is not a burst of strength that lasts for a few moments and
then leaves the individual exhausted for the day, but the endurance
which enables one to forge ahead day after day.
It is generally dangerous to build up great muscles, for if the
exercises that brought them into being are stopped, they begin to
degenerate so fast that the system with difficulty gets rid of the
poisons. Then look out for one of the diseases of degeneration, such as
inflammation of the kidneys or typhoid fever.
The great muscles exhibited from time to time upon the variety stage and
in circuses are not normal.
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