Speed, and still more duration in running, are in proportion to the
developement of the lungs, and consequently the volume of oxygen and
blood which they can combine in their parenchyma at each respiratory
movement. Thus, of two men, one having the abdominal members
developed, and the other possessing good lungs, the former will run
with the greatest speed for a short distance, but if the distance be
considerable, he will soon be gained upon by the latter. A runner,
after performing a certain space, is seized with a difficulty of
breathing, long before the repetition of the contractions has produced
fatigue in the abdominal members. To excel, therefore, in running,
requires, like walking and dancing, a peculiar exercise. As the
muscular contractions depend, for their principle of excitement, on the
respiration, the chest should be firmly fixed, so as both to facilitate
this, and to serve as a point of support for the efforts of the lower
members. The best runners are those who have the _best wind_, and keep
the breast dilated for the longest time.
During the whole time of running, long inspirations and slow
expirations are of the greatest importance; and young persons cannot be
too early accustomed to them. To facilitate respiration towards the end
of the race, the upper part of the body may be leant a little forward.
Running should cease as soon as the breath becomes very short, and a
strong perspiration takes place.