Lift the chest and extend the right foot downward, then lift the
chest with the downward extension of the left foot, rhythmically
alternating from one to the other. This is the first step in the
development of rhythm.
This alternation is still more akin to the action of the body in
standing and walking.
Allow the hip to extend outward on the same side which is being
extended.
Co-ordination, that is a simultaneous and sympathetic union of many
parts in one action or a harmonious variation of a primary response in
many parts, is one of the primary characteristics of the organism. It
can be secured by a certain feeling that the whole nature shares in the
exercise, that the whole body responds to the whole being of man. It is
a direct expression of joy and sympathy. In an involuntary performance
there is always less co-ordination than in a sympathetic motion. These
are feelings vitally necessary to co-ordination and we must not only
have and feel them, we must express them in the body.
The alternation of exercises introduces rhythm, which has been found to
be one of the most fundamental elements in training. Rhythm consists of
proportion in time. This proportion is in alternation: alternation of
activity and passivity, and in alternation of one part with another, as
in walking.
Rhythm is the continuity of co-ordinations. Co-ordinations cannot be
properly preserved without rhythm nor can there be rhythm without
co-ordinations.
The exercises 2 to 6 should all be included in No. 1. They should also
be individually practiced in order to accomplish the best results and to
avoid the omission of any of these primary elements which should be
present in and co-ordinate every true exercise.
After being practiced individually, exercise No. 1 should be practiced
several times with a greater co-ordinating union of all the elements.
The feeling of satisfaction and joy should be realized at once.