EfiE 5Mb 
 
THE LIBRARY 
 
 OF 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY 
 OF CALIFORNIA 
 
 PRESENTED BY 
 
 PROF. CHARLES A. KOFOID AND 
 MRS. PRUDENCE W. KOFOID 
 
HIE 
 
 GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
THE 
 
 GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINOK 
 
 INSTRUCTIONS FOR PERFORMING 
 
 SYSTEMATIC SERIES OF EXERCISES 
 
 GYMNASTIC & CALISTHBNIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 BY CAPTAIN iCJJIOSSO, 
 
 PHK INVENTOR, PROFKSSOR OF GYMNASTICS AT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE SCHOOL, LONDON, 
 AND AUTHOR OF SKVERAL TREATISES ON PHYSICAL EDUCATION. 
 
 " Ah ! what avail the largest gifts of Heaven 
 When drooping health and spirits go amiss ! 
 
 How tasteless then whatever can he given ! 
 Health is the vital principle of bliss, 
 
 And exercise of health." THOMSON, 
 
 LONDON: WALTON & MABEBLY, 
 
 UPPER GOWER STREET, AND TVY LANE, PATERNOSTER ROW V 
 PARIS AND NEW YORK: Tl.BALLIEKE. 
 
 o be had also at Capt. CHIOSSO & SON'S London Gymnasium, 123, Oxford Street, near Regent Circus, 
 
 and 21, New Road, corner of Gower Street North; 
 or at Capt. CHIOSSO'S Piivate Establishment, 38, Baker Street, Fortman Square. 
 
 1855. 
 
C-5 
 
 C O N T E N T S. 
 
 Page 
 
 I ntroduction , , . . 9 
 
 History of the Gymnastic Polymachinon 9 
 
 Description 12 
 
 Rules to be observed during Exercise at the Polymachinon .. 14 
 
 Maladies relieved J 5 
 
 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF THE GYMNASTIC 
 POLYMACHINON. 
 
 EXERCISES OF THE HEAD. 
 
 1 . Upward and Backward Traction 17 
 
 2. Forward and Downward Traction 18 
 
 3. Lateral Traction or Flexion IS 
 
 4. Horizontal Rotation 20 
 
 5. Upward and Backward Traction, with Lateral Flexi m in 
 
 Rotation 22 
 
 C). Forward and Downward Traction, with Lateral Flexion in 
 
 Rotation 22 
 
 EXERCISES OF TRUNK ONLY. 
 
 1 . Forward Flexion . . . -. 24 
 
 2. Upward Traction 2fi 
 
 3. Erect Rotation 2f> 
 
 4. Lateral Traction 28 
 
 5. General Rotation . .29 
 
 EXERCISES OF ARMS. 
 
 1. Erect Flexion ...., 30 
 
 2. Inclined Forward Extension 32 
 
 3. Erect Rotatory Adduction < 34 
 
 4. Lateral Extension 34 
 
 5. Lateral Flexion and Extension 36 
 
 6. Adduction, with Permanent Extension 37 
 
 7. Abduction, with Permanent Extension 38 
 
 8. Inclined Downward Traction with Permanent Extension . . 40 
 
 9. Upward Traction with Arms passed behind 41 
 
8 CONTENTS. 
 
 Page 
 
 10. Lateral Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension. . 42 
 
 11. Downward Lateral Rotation, with Permanent Extension. . 42 
 
 12. Upward Lateral Traction, with Permanent Extension. ... 44 
 
 13. Upward Lateral Rotation, with Permanent Extension. . . . 44 
 
 14. Downward Forward Traction, with Permanent Extension 4G 
 
 15. Direct Forward Traction, with Permanent Extension. ... 46 
 
 16. Erect Flexion, continued to Downward Extension 48 
 
 17. Inclined Forward Traction 48 
 
 EXERCISES OF TRUNK AND ARMS. 
 
 1. Upward Brachial Traction, with Movement of Trunk .... 49 
 
 2. Prone and Supine Movement of Trunk, with Brachial 
 
 Flexion and Extension 50 
 
 3. Lateral Traction of Trunk, with Brachial Traction 52 
 
 4. Prone and Supine Movement of Trunk, with Flexion and 
 
 Extension of Legs , 54 
 
 5. Semi-Rotation of Trunk, with Brachial Flexion and Ex- 
 
 tension 55 
 
 6. Rotation of Trunk, with Lateral Brachial Extension 56 
 
 7. Rotation of Trunk, with Lateral Brachial Flexion 58 
 
 8 & 9. Rotation of Trunk, with Brachial Abduction and Ad- 
 duction, with Permanent Extension 58 
 
 10. Downward Rotatory Brachial Traction, with Forward 
 
 Movement of Trunk 59 
 
 11. Upward Traction of Trunk, with Flexion and Extension 
 
 of Legs 60 
 
 EXERCISES OF THE LKGS. 
 
 1 . Downward Traction or Extension 62 
 
 2. Upward Traction or Flexion 64 
 
 3. Lateral Extension or Abduction 65 
 
 4. Lateral Traction or Adduction 66 
 
 5. Forward Traction 66 
 
 6. Backward Traction, with Permanent Extension 68 
 
 7. Forward Rotation 70 
 
 8. Backward Rotation 71 
 
 9. Reclined Downward Traction, with Permanent Kxtensioi).. 72 
 
 10. Flexion of Limb at Knee only 74 
 
 1 1. Ext 'nsion of Limb at Knee only 74 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 In a former Treatise* I considered Gymnastics as an essential 
 branch of popular education, and an invaluable remedial agent 
 in many forms of chronic disease ; and the favourable reception 
 of that work by the press and public, together with the daily 
 extending interest manifested in this important subject, have 
 induced the publication of this little manual. 
 
 For while the Author views with pleasure the advance of 
 physical education, he is aware that many, who would willingly 
 adopt exercise as a hygienic or curative medium, either have not 
 access to gymnasiums, or are deterred through ignorance of the 
 movements they should adopt, as well as from fear of the evils 
 resulting from indiscriminate and violent exertion ; and for such, 
 the following series of scientifically arranged exercises will be 
 found admirably suited, as the Polymachinon combines perfect 
 safety, with all the essential elements of the most elaborate 
 gymnasium. 
 
 HISTORY OF THE POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Bodily exercise, to be of use, not temporarily but permanently, 
 must be of such a nature as to act gradually on the various 
 complicated sets of motors of the body in every possible way, 
 from the head to the feet, without the chance of their receiving 
 the least strain ; and the first efforts to produce an instrument, 
 by which this might be securely effected, were made by the 
 author in the year 1829. 
 
 These met with signal success, and were fully appreciated by 
 all who placed themselves under his care ; amongst whom might 
 be mentioned many eminent members of the medical profession. 
 Still, these attempts, though essentially good, lacked many 
 
 * Rationale of Gymnastics. 
 
10 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 requisites for carrying out his views. Sensible that injury of a 
 serious nature was likely to accrue to young persons, as well ns 
 adults, in attempting the performance of feats of strength on 
 immoveable resisting substances, before the various muscles were 
 rendered fit for such exertion, it was not until 1831 that an 
 instrument was devised, which appeared to possess the desired 
 virtues. 
 
 This consisted of a rough and strong frame-work of wood, 
 of rather large dimensions; to which were attached blocks, 
 through which cords passed to the different weights (required 
 for the various movements), situated on a platform at the base of 
 the machine ; handles being attached to the other extremity of 
 the cords, by which the weights were set in motion. Although 
 possessing advantages, it was found, after some time, to be defi- 
 cient in many respects. First, the weights being all exposed, 
 and the danger likely to arise from children or young persons 
 touching them while in motion. Again, the rough and clumsy 
 appearance of the whole; the requiring a great number of 
 weights, regulated to the powers of different individuals, and 
 the very limited amount of exercise that could be performed, 
 proved it far short of what was required. Perceiving these 
 faults, the Inventor endeavoured to surmount at least some of 
 the chief difficulties; and in the year 1836 another apparatus 
 was conceived. It consisted of two simple upright planks of 
 good strong deal, about thirteen inches wide and one inch and 
 a-half thick, placed opposite to each other, with an intervening 
 space of about seven feet and a-half; these were fixed firmly 
 into the floor, and joined at the top by means of a transverse 
 beam of the same width as the uprights. In this frame-work of 
 wood pulleys were fixed at different correct points, to take the 
 place of the blocks in the old instrument, through which the 
 different cords passed to the weights ; the arrangement of which, 
 also, differed materially, To the two uprights were fixed two 
 plates of wrought iron, each carrying two strong levers of the 
 same material, about two feet and a-half in length, by three 
 inches wide, each having two rows of holes running the whole 
 length, one placed above the other ; the lower being for the 
 
INTRODUCTION. 11 
 
 adjustment of the weight, weighing about 41b., of lead or iron, 
 and the top for the fastening of the hook attached to the various 
 cords, which, after passing through the different pulleys, termi- 
 nated in handles. Thus, there was the great advantage of 
 merely having four weights, which by this simple arrangement 
 could be easily adapted to the powers of any individual, by 
 moving them up or down the lever as the case required. For 
 instance, in adapting it to the strength of a weakly person or 
 child, the weight was approximated to the fulcrum (which of 
 course was situated on the plates before described), and the 
 hook removed towards the extremity of the lever ; while for a 
 stronger individual, the reverse took place. After many years 
 of practice this arrangement was found incomplete, inasmuch as 
 by it great danger was still apparent, in the mischief possible to 
 arise to young persons from touching the levers and weights 
 when in motion. Besides, the continual noise caused by the 
 metals clashing, and the immobility and unprepossessing ap- 
 pearance of the whole. The two first difficulties were at last 
 overcome. 
 
 The new design consisted of two square upright columns or 
 boxes of wood, fourteen inches square and eight feet high, 
 divided into a certain number of compartments, running from 
 the top to the bottom ; the columns were placed opposite each 
 other, and fixed firmly, by means of screws, to the floor, being 
 joined at the top by means of a stout plank of deal, as a means 
 of transmitting the cords (through the medium of pulleys) from 
 one box to the other : the compartments were for the weights to 
 run up and down, so that one should be quite independent of the 
 other, and remove all fear of clashing and getting entangled. 
 Although this succeeded admirably, it still lacked essential 
 qualities: 1. That of being portable. 2. Being of such size 
 and bulk, that the space occupied should be inconsiderable. 
 And 3rd, having such an arrangement of weights, that with 
 ease they could be made lighter or heavier, as required. How- 
 ever, after much labour, the Inventor finally succeeded in 
 producing a combination, so arranged as to meet, in the form of 
 a single instrument, the great desiderata. 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 DESCRIPTION. 
 
 The "Gymnastic and Calisthenic Polymachinon" consists of 
 a single column or box of wood, varying from one to two feet 
 in diameter, resting on a broad and secure pedestal or base. Its 
 height is about eight feet, having at the top a projecting arm, to 
 which are attached pulleys and handles for particular exercises. 
 The machine, according to size, is divided into a certain number 
 of compartments, from twenty downwards, which admit weights 
 of a certain construction to move up and down without the least 
 friction, and obviates the possibility of jostling. At the top is 
 a complicated arrangement of pulleys (supplied with leaders to 
 prevent the cords escaping from the grooves), so placed as not 
 to interfere in the least one with the other ; there are also pulleys 
 on the exterior of the apparatus, over and under which run gutta 
 percha cords (with handles fixed at their outer extremity) pass- 
 ing to the interior, and attached to the weights in the base. 
 Rollers of hard wood, working in brass sockets, are placed by 
 the side of certain pulleys, that the cord may be pulled laterally 
 without slipping off, thus giving an almost unrestricted sphere 
 of movement. It being necessary to increase or diminish the 
 amount of individual weights according to necessity, doors are 
 placed at the base of the machine that they maybe easily altered, 
 or any disarrangement rectified ; at the top of the apparatus a 
 moveable cap, fitting closely over the pulleys, prevents the 
 accumulation of dust, and is easily removed when these require 
 oiling, or replacing, &c. The doors being shut and the lid 
 adjusted all the weights are hid from view, and thus no accident 
 can possibly take place. 
 
 The weights used in these machines being rather peculiar in 
 construction, a short description may be interesting. It being 
 necessary that the various weights be easily augmented or 
 reduced, a method was devised which perfectly answers the end. 
 This consists of a rod of iron (two feet in length), having as a 
 base a piece of round lead or iron, about two inches and a-half 
 in diameter, with a sliding cap which moves up and down the 
 
INTRODUCTION. 1O 
 
 rod, and made to fit accurately on the weight below. By means 
 of a hollow surface, which rests on a corresponding elevation, 
 intermediate weights are then placed between the two, by means 
 of a slit in each extending to the centre, and having a projecting 
 surface on one side and a depression on the opposite, so as to fit 
 its fellows above and underneath, thus preventing the possibility 
 of any one slipping off during exercise ; and at the same time 
 allowing easy removal, or prompt adjustment. Pads of wool 
 placed at the bottom of each compartment prevent all noise. 
 On the exterior of the apparatus numbers are affixed to the 
 different handles, that the various movements may be easily 
 arrived at and remembered. 
 
 The prominent advantages of this instrument, for domestic 
 use, may be stated as : 
 
 1 . Being small in bulk, the space required for it, when in use, 
 is of so little import that it may with ease be employed in an 
 ordinary room. 
 
 2. Being placed on rollers, it can, when done with, be located 
 in a recess, and withdrawn at pleasure, thus doing away with 
 the inconvenience arising from fixed apparatus. 
 
 3. That it may be used by one person at a time, or by a num- 
 ber of persons not exceeding ten, acting totally independently 
 of one another. 
 
 4. That the different appliances, such as weights, handles, &c. 
 are so arranged, that without the slightest trouble they can be 
 adapted to the strength of any individual. 
 
 5. That it may be used by children in the nursery or play- 
 room, without the least fear of accident.* 
 
 6. That let as many individuals as stated be at work at the 
 same time, there is no annoyance produced through noise. 
 
 7. That to families in town or country it will afford to the 
 younger branches that fund of amusement, embodied in the shape 
 of useful occupation, when inclemency of weather, or other cir- 
 cumstances, prevent out-door exercise. 
 
 8. It can be packed and sent off with facility, and small 
 
 * As a rule, however, it is always belter that some competent person should superin- 
 tend the use of the machine. 
 
1 1 INTRODUCTION*. 
 
 expense, which, to persons leaving town or changing residence, 
 are points of importance. 
 
 9. The elegant and ornamental structure of the whole fits it 
 for a prominent position in the dining-room, library, or boudoir. 
 
 RULES TO BE OBSERVED DURING EXERCISE AT THE 
 POLYMACHINON. 
 
 1 . The correct position of the body during the various exer- 
 cises at the Polymachinon is so thoroughly essential, that it 
 must be observed and adhered to with the utmost strictness, 
 as by any deviation from it the object of the movements will 
 be frustrated. 
 
 2. That all exercises are to be performed gently, no violence 
 taking place, so that the part of the body in motion may receive 
 no sudden jerk or shock, which may be productive of a strain. 
 
 3. That it is perfectly necessary, between the finishing of one 
 exercise and the commencement of another, that an interval of at 
 least three minutes elapse, so that the muscles thus rested may 
 gain strength through the blood having time to form the deposit 
 requisite to the formation of muscular fibre. 
 
 4. That movements of opposite tendencies must be taken 
 alternately, so that one set of muscles may not always undergo 
 the same exertion, whilst others are dormant : thus after using 
 the arm in a motion which calls into action its flexor muscles, it 
 must next have the antagonist or extensor muscles brought into 
 play by an opposite movement, and so with every part of the 
 body, else an unequal development takes place. 
 
 5. That the time for exercise must be well studied. It is 
 equally injurious to the whole body to take exercise imme- 
 diately before a meal or immediately after, as the organs of 
 digestion then lack the stimulus requisite for a healthful pro- 
 duction of the various secretions. The best time, therefore, to 
 exercise at the Polymachinon, is about one hour before or two 
 hours after a repast. 
 
 6. That the body during exercise must be perfectly unre- 
 strained ; braces, belts, or tight garments of any description are 
 rvil-s to be at once thrown aside. 
 
INTRODUCTION. 15 
 
 7. That at the termination of every exercise the weights are 
 to be let down gradually and gently ; as by allowing them sud- 
 denly to drop a shock is given to the limb, and the machine may 
 possibly be damaged. 
 
 8. That exercise must never be continued until a sensation 
 of fatigue overcomes any part of the body, exhaustion being- 
 hurtful in the extreme ; for instead of an increase taking place, 
 the parts thus acted upon actually waste. 
 
 9. That it is desirable, as strength increases, to augment the 
 number of times the limbs or other parts of the body move, in 
 preference to increasing the amount of weight ; thus, if after a 
 fortnight it is found easier than at first to move a weight of say 
 ten pounds, for twenty times to and fro, perform the movement 
 thirty times, and so on until a further advance is necessary. 
 
 The individual about to commence exercises at the Poly ma - 
 chinon, having made himself perfectly acquainted with these 
 rules, will proceed with the performance of the various move- 
 ments (exercises) in the order laid down in the succeeding pages. 
 But it must be understood, that system and regularity are most 
 essential. Thus, if in one day we have ten movements, the 
 next day the ten following in order may be performed, or a 
 repetition of the first, if necessary. It would be almost impos- 
 sible, certainly hurtful, to perform all, consecutively, during one 
 lesson. The arrangement, however, must be determined by the 
 gymnast, or by the party himself. 
 
 The following may be specified as some of the maladies in 
 which the use of the Polymachinon will be most beneficial : 
 Congestions of the Head, Giddiness, &c. 
 Hypochondrias in . 
 Narrow and contracted Chest, 
 Asthma. 
 Constipation. 
 ( >besity. 
 Affections of the Heart. 
 
I 6 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 Derangement of the Digestive Organs. 
 
 Nervous Affections. 
 
 Epilepsy. 
 
 Paralysis. 
 
 Curvatures of the Spine, and other Deformities. 
 
 JAMES CHIOSSO. 
 
 LONDON GYMNASIUM, 
 123, OXFORD STREET, near Regent Circus : 
 
 21, NEW ROAD, corner of Cower Street North; 
 
 Or at Captain CHIOSSO'S PRIVATE ESTABLISHMENT for the Cure of Chronic Diseases 
 and Spinal Complaints, 38, BAKER STREET, Portraan Square. 
 
SYSTEM OF EXERCISES 
 
 GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON, 
 
 MOVEMENTS OF THE HEAD.* 
 1. Upward and Backward Traction. (Figure 1.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, being seated facing the front of the 
 machine, will have the padded head-piece applied and 
 secured to the head by means of well regulated straps, 
 so as to prevent its slipping off, or altering position ; the 
 gutta-percha cord, which is attached to the cap in front 
 by means of a swivel, is continued through the proper 
 pulley, placed according to the position of the pupil or 
 patient, either in the centre, midway between the centre 
 and base, or at the base of the apparatus. 
 
 Exercise. The above rules for the position having been 
 observed, the head, which is now held down by the weight, 
 is to be brought upwards and gradually forced backwards, 
 as far as possible, without altering the position of the 
 body, being careful not to allow the trunk to enter into the 
 movement with the head in the least degree throughout 
 
 * The exercises and movements of the head (neck) have been inserted here only for 
 the sake of completeness. The Polymachinon being, in the main, a hygieistic and educa- 
 tional contrivance, ought never to be used in real maladies or deformities, but by the 
 advice and under the control of a professional Gymnast or Kinesitherapist. The head, 
 especially, being a compound of organs so very important and delicate, ought never to be 
 acted upon but with the greatest caution ; besides, the consensus of muscular power men- 
 tioned in our Rationale of Gymnastics (page 31), will prove to every one, that in most 
 cases, while the generality of muscles are strengthened and improved, those of the neck 
 will partake of the same advantages. 
 
18 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 the exercise. The first position is now to be assumed by 
 allowing the head to return forward and downward, re- 
 peating the movement until the required number has been 
 performed. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles which enter into the per- 
 formance of this movement, are such as are destined to 
 keep the head well up and erect on the trunk (rectus 
 posticus major et minor, complexus, splenius capitis, &c.); 
 and thus, through their proper exercise and development, 
 will obviate that unsightly habit of dropping the head 
 forward (brought on through weakness of those parts) 
 observed so frequently amongst the youth of both sexes. 
 
 2. Forward and Downward Traction. (Figure 2.) 
 
 Position. The position of the pupil or patient is to be 
 the same as in the preceding exercise, with the exception 
 that the back instead of the front will be turned towards 
 the machine. 
 
 Exercise. This is the opposite of the preceding, the head 
 -being brought forward and downward, instead of upward 
 and backward : the movement is to be continued until the 
 number of times prescribed is completed, observing strictly, 
 that the body is to remain steadily fixed, and not to enter 
 into the movement. 
 
 Muscles. From the fact of this exercise being the reverse 
 of the last, of course the antagonist muscles, to those before 
 acted upon, will be exerted (the chief of which will be the 
 longus colli, sterno-mastoid 9 &c.); and thus care must be 
 observed in the performance of this movement, else the 
 development of those muscles will be too great. 
 
 3. Lateral Traction or Flexion. (Figure 3.) 
 
 Position. The pupil being placed in the sitting position, 
 sideways towards the apparatus, at a correct distance from 
 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 19 
 
 Figure 1. 
 Upward and Backward Traction 
 
 Figure 2. 
 Forward and Downward Traction, 
 
 B 2 
 
20 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 the machine, has the head-piece affixed with due care and 
 exactitude. 
 
 Exercise. The head in this movement is either flexed 
 from right to left, or left to right, according to the position 
 of the body ; if that of the right side be next the machine, 
 the former will be the case ; if the left, the latter will be 
 the exercise ; this, of course, must be regulated according 
 to the weakness or disease of the pupil or patient. It may 
 be well to observe here, that the eyes are always to be 
 directed forwards, never letting the head drop. 
 
 As a general rule, where the object of the pupil is merely 
 the acquirement of strength, then, when one side has been 
 exercised, the position of the body is to be reversed, and a 
 similar number of movements performed on the opposite 
 one. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles brought into action are the 
 recti-laterales, inter-transversales, &c., in combination with 
 those which separately move the head forward and back- 
 wards, giving them increased power in maintaining it in an 
 
 erect position. 
 
 ... 
 
 4. Horizontal Rotation. (Figure 4.) 
 
 Position. The position of the pupil is the same as that 
 described in the last exercise. 
 
 Exercise. The head is to move from the above position, 
 in a horizontal direction, until the chin is quite over one 
 shoulder (say the right), without the trunk being moved 
 in the least ; it is now to perform a similar movement in 
 returning, until passed over the opposite shoulder ; the 
 exercise will be completed when, by repeating the move- 
 ment from side to side, the required number of times has 
 been performed. 
 
 Muscles. The trapezius takes a strong part in this move- 
 ment in unison with the splenius capitis, splenius colli, and 
 sterno-mastoidcus, &c. acting as rotators ; the command of 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Figure 3. 
 Lateral Traction or Flexion. 
 
 Figure 4. 
 Horizontal Rotation. 
 
22 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 which, through a general development, gives freedom in 
 moving the head as may be required, either in walking, or 
 in different movements of the body. 
 
 5. Upward and Backward Traction, with Lateral Flexion in 
 
 Rotation. (Figure 5.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed precisely as in the 
 last exercise. 
 
 Exercise. This is a combination of the first exercise 
 (upward and backward traction), with the third (lateral 
 traction or flexion). The first action is that of the head 
 being drawn laterally upwards, and so continued back- 
 wards, allowing it to drop on the opposite shoulder as it 
 approaches the termination of the movement ; this is to be 
 continued for a certain number of times, when the inverse 
 is to take place by reversing the movement, care being 
 taken not to move the body in the least, throughout the 
 exercise. 
 
 Muscles. The combined muscles, which move the head 
 backwards (part of trapezius, rectus posticus, major et 
 minor, obliquus superior), with those that move it laterally 
 (sterno-mastoideus, &c.), are by this exercise brought into 
 action. 
 
 6. Forward and Downward Traction, with Lateral Flexion in 
 
 Rotation. (Figure 6.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed as in the third 
 exercise. 
 
 Exercise. In this, the second exercise and the third are 
 combined in one continuous movement, as in the preceding. 
 The head in the first place is brought laterally forward and 
 continued downward, ascending on the opposite side until 
 again leaned quite backward; this is to be continued, 
 until the number of times required be completed, when 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYM ACHINON. 
 
 Figure 5. 
 
 Upward and Backward Traction, with Lateral Flexion in 
 Rotation. 
 
 Figure 6. 
 
 Forward and Downward Traction, with Lateral Flexion in 
 Rotation. 
 
24- SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 the movement is to be reversed, until the exercise 
 finished. 
 
 Muscles. Those which present a somewhat antagonistic 
 force to the preceding, are duly brought fully into action, 
 as the rectus anticus major et minor, &c. ; and aid with 
 the rest of the muscles of the neck, through their conse- 
 quent development in giving a proper position to, and in 
 rendering perfect the various movements of, the head 
 and neck. 
 
 MOVEMENTS OF TRUNK ONLY. 
 
 1. Forward Flexion. (Figure 7 .) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed with the back to 
 the front of the apparatus, either standing, sitting, or lying 
 down. The pad placed at the base of the apparatus is 
 then to be adjusted on the chest, and the weight decreased 
 or increased according to the powers of the pupil. The 
 hands to hold those of the assistant, or to rest on the 
 handles of the pad. 
 
 Exercise. The trunk is now to be brought forward 
 gradually until the chest approaches the advanced leg, as 
 near as possible ; it is, from this position, gently to ascend 
 and extend on the loins, stretching as far back as possible 
 without losing the balance, when the movement is to be 
 repeated ; so that after the number of times are performed, 
 the exercise will be completed. The legs will be alter- 
 nately flexed and extended, as the trunk is either brought 
 forward or backwards. 
 
 Muscles. Those muscles which are inserted in the pelvis 
 and originate in the thorax, that is to say, the ribs, &c., as 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Figure 7. 
 Forward Flexion. 
 
 Figure 8. 
 Upward Traction. 
 
SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 the rectos abdominalis, &c., are in this exercise most per- 
 fectly exercised, and consequently developed, while at the 
 same time the organs of digestion, &c., are healthfully 
 stimulated. 
 
 2. Upward Traction. (Figure 8.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, standing erect in front of the ma- 
 chine, with the heels close together, will place the pad for 
 that purpose on the shoulders, by a smart movement up- 
 wards of the arms; the hands are then to rest on the 
 cords, to steady and prevent the pad from slipping off. 
 
 Exercise. From this position the body is to be inclined 
 well forward, without the legs being bent in the least ; 
 having reached as low as possible, it is now again to be 
 forced gradually upwards (allowing the movement to take 
 place solely at the loins), until the erect position is attained. 
 A repetition of these movements, for the required number 
 of times, will complete the exercise. 
 
 Muscles. The object in this exercise is to develop and 
 strengthen the muscles of the loins, back, and neck, a 
 combined action of which takes place throughout the 
 movement. The chief sets that are acted upon, are the 
 trapezius, latissimus dorsi, multifidus spines, longissimus 
 dorsif quadratus lumborum, &c. 
 
 3. Erect Rotation. (Figure 9.) 
 
 Position. The position of the pupil differs from that 
 observed in the preceding exercise, one side of the body 
 being presented to the machine (say the right), instead of 
 the front. The legs are to be separated, with the feet 
 firmly planted on the floor or ground ; the strap placed in 
 the middle pulleys of the machine is now to be adjusted, 
 so that the cord runs direct from the shoulder. 
 
 Exercise. The position of the legs being strictly main- 
 
 = 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON, 
 
 Figure 9. 
 Erect Rotation. 
 
 'igure 10. 
 Lateral Traction. 
 
28 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 tained, the shoulder to which the cord is attached is to be 
 brought round as far as possible, until it is at a right angle 
 with the legs (that is to say, in the same plane); from this 
 point it is again to turn back, not stopping at the point of 
 starting, but passing as far behind as possible. This to 
 and fro movement must be continued gently and unceas- 
 ingly, until the number of times prescribed have expired. 
 The other side of the body must then be exercised in like 
 manner. 
 
 Muscles. All those sets of muscles destined to turn 
 upper part of the body on the loins, are thoroughly exerted, 
 and by a continuance of this exercise acquire great power. 
 
 4. Lateral Traction. (Figure 10.) 
 
 Position. The padded handle at the base of the machine 
 is to be grasped with both hands, drawn out and upwards, 
 and placed on that shoulder of the pupil which is most 
 distant from the machine (either by the assistant, or by 
 the pupil himself), it being in this instance the left, 
 the right consequently being nearest the apparatus. To 
 give power in the movements, the legs must be separated, 
 firmly fixing the feet on the floor at a distance between 
 them regulated to the stature of the pupil; the nearest 
 foot to the base of the apparatus must be distant from it 
 about the length of two feet, the trunk being kept quite 
 erect, with the left hand holding the pad, whilst the right 
 is placed on the hip, or hanging down by the side. 
 
 Exercise. Observing the rules laid down for the po- 
 sition, the trunk must now be gradually flexed over to one 
 side (in this instance the right, that side being nearest the 
 machine), allowing the weight to drag the body in that 
 direction as low as possible, flexing at the same time the 
 corresponding leg in a slight degree; with a gradual effort 
 the body is now to be brought up into the erect position, 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 29 
 
 and then bent slowly over to the opposite side, pulling, 
 of course, the weight after it as far as possible. The ex- 
 ercise, to be completed, requires a continuation of these 
 movements from side to side, for the given number of 
 times. The opposite side of the body is then to be turned 
 to the machine, and the pad adjusted as before described, 
 when a similar number of movements are to be performed. 
 Muscles. Those muscles which are most strongly acted 
 upon in this exercise, are such as have a direct tendency 
 (in combination with others) in flexing the trunk laterally, 
 as the obliquus externus et interims, quadratus lumborum, 
 longissimus dor si, sacro-lumbalis, &c., the development of 
 which is most essential in aiding the dorsal muscles to a 
 complete and just performance of all movements of the 
 body, whether in walking, jumping, running, &c. 
 
 5. General Rotation. (Figure 11.) 
 
 Position. The rules laid down for the position in the 
 second exercise (page 26, Fig. 8), are also in this to be 
 strictly observed. 
 
 Exercise. This is a combination of the three preceding 
 exercises performed in one continuous movement. First, 
 the body is allowed to turn round on the hips as in the 
 third exercise; from this position it is to be bent over to 
 the side as in the fourth, performing a rotatory movement 
 at the loins, so as to be well flexed in ascending on the 
 opposite side, to assume the first position, as in the second 
 exercise. After the movement has been repeated some 
 times, the inverse must then take place, until the exercise 
 is completed. 
 
 Muscles. As this is a combination of the three before- 
 described movements, consequently their combined series of 
 muscles are brought into play, as the lateral muscles of the 
 abdomen, the rotators and the erectors of the trunk. These 
 
30 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 acquire great strength, and, through the development of 
 their several fibres, give a firmness to the whole body, and 
 rectify any weakness or pains in the back, arising from 
 debility, especially in the growing subject. 
 
 MOVEMENTS OF THE ARMS. 
 
 1, Erect Flexion. (Figure 12.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed perfectly erect, under 
 the projecting arm of the machine, accurately between the 
 two handles appended thereto ; the knees are to be quite 
 extended, though by no means stiff; the heels close 
 together, with the toes apart; the hands to be placed 
 over the head and the handles taken hold of, one in each 
 hand,* leaving the arms quite extended and holding the 
 handles lightly with the first phalanx of the fingers. 
 
 Exercise. Commence by drawing one arm (say the right) 
 down, until the thumb of that hand touches the projecting 
 part of the chest on that side, the elbow being close to the 
 body, not allowing it to protrude behind ; from this position 
 allow the hand to ascend at the same time as the other 
 descends, finishing in the same position as the latter, and 
 so continue the movement until the exercise is completed ; 
 when finished, then both arms are to move together, ar- 
 riving at a level on each side of the chest. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles called into play in this 
 exercise are, first, the flexors of the fore-arm on the arm, 
 viz., the biceps and brachialis anticus ; the pectoral muscles 
 are also exerted, in unison with the trapezius and latissi- 
 mus dorsi, in drawing the arm downwards. 
 
 * If the handles are too far out of reach, to avoid any possibility of straining in an 
 effort made to get them, a hook is provided for the purpose of pulling them down. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 31 
 
 Figure 1 1 . General Rotation , 
 
 Figure 12. Erect Flexion. 
 
2 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 2. Inclined Forward Extension. (Figure 13.) 
 Position. In this exercise the pupil, placed to the front 
 of the machine with the back turned towards it, is to 
 pass the hands behind and take hold of the two handles 
 situate directly at the back, on a level with the elbows, and 
 bring them to the front of the body from under the arms, 
 the cords remaining in that position. The handles, when 
 in front, are to rest in the hollow between the thumb and 
 first finger, and there retained throughout the exercise ; 
 from this position take a step forward with one foot (say 
 the right), about the distance of two feet from the other, 
 assuming rather the attitude of the statues of the ancient 
 athletes, the toe of the advanced foot being turned a degree 
 outwards ; the advanced leg to be kept bent with the knee 
 over the foot, whilst the other is to be perfectly extended. 
 Exercise. Let the right arm be gradually and thoroughly 
 extended in front of the body, the hand being at the height 
 of the head, and the shoulder reaching well forward ; from 
 this position the hand is to return to its former one, through 
 the bending of the arm, while the left arm gradually extends 
 and assumes that of the former, continuing so for a given 
 number of times ; when completed in that attitude, reverse 
 the position of the feet and perform a similar movement 
 for as many times as prescribed, when both arms are to be 
 used at once in projecting the handles, either with the feet 
 changed or not. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles which are called into action 
 in this exercise, are the extensors of the arm (triceps), 
 which stretch them forward, the trunk being moved and 
 kept forward by the pectoral muscles and the seratus mag- 
 nusy with those of the abdomen, viz., the rectus abdominis, 
 obliquus externus abdominis, and internus; as also, slightly, 
 the psoas muscles. As there is always a slight flexion 
 and extension of the lower limbs, of course the respective 
 muscles are also brought into action. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACIIINON. 
 
 Figure 13. Inclined Forward Extension, 
 
 Figure 14. Erect Rotatory Adduction. 
 C 
 
SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 
 3. Erect Rotatory Adduction. (Figure 14.) 
 
 Position. In this exercise the pupil is to be placed with 
 the back towards and leaning against the machine, the head 
 and back resting in contact with it, the legs quite straight, 
 heels close together and placed about four inches from the 
 base of the Polymachinon ; both arms being placed over 
 the head, and taking hold of the handle at each extremity 
 with the full grasp. 
 
 Exercise. From this position commence by bringing 
 both arms downwards at full length (that is to say, with- 
 out bending them in the least), very slowly, gradually 
 and without the slightest jerk, until the hands have 
 reached their lowest point in front of the body ; they 
 are now to ascend by bending the arms and drawing the 
 handle towards the body, (performing a rotary movement 
 at the shoulder joint with the arm, similar to that produced 
 when turning a windlass,) letting it ascend until they reach 
 the point of starting, above the head ; the exercise is to be 
 continued until the number of times prescribed is completed. 
 Particular care must be taken that the body does not move 
 from the machine throughout the exercise. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles chiefly acted upon in this exer- 
 cise, are those of the chest (adductors), the extensors of the 
 arms, as well as the muscles of the fore-arm, in maintaining 
 the hold; also, some of the dorsal muscles, and those of 
 the neck. 
 
 4. Lateral Extension. (Figure 15.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, in this exercise, is not to face the 
 machine, but to stand sideways to it, presenting one 
 shoulder (say the right) to one of the middle handles, the 
 shoulders being kept quite square, and retained so through- 
 out, the feet separated about a foot and a half, and planted 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON, 
 
 35 
 
 Figure 15. Lateral Extension. 
 
 Figure 16. Lateral Flexion and Extension, 
 C 2 
 
36 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 sing 
 
 firmly on the floor, the nearest to the apparatus bei 
 placed the full length of the arm, and rather more, from the 
 base of it ; the knees are to be straight, and kept so during 
 the exercise, but on no account stiff. The hand which is 
 most distant from the handle (which will in this instance 
 be the left) is then passed across the chest, and taking hold 
 of it with the fingers, will, by flexing the arm, draw it into 
 position before the right shoulder. 
 
 Exercise. The arm is now to be extended very slowly, 
 gradually and laterally from the chest, until perfectly 
 straight, on the opposite side of the body (the left), and 
 in a line with both shoulders ; the handle is held in the 
 beginning by the fingers only, but so soon as the lateral 
 extension commences, is dropped into the hollow formed by 
 the thumb and first finger, thus giving more power to the 
 member to complete the movement. The exercise is then 
 completed by the arm returning to the first position, and 
 continuing the movement until the number of times have 
 expired. After an interval the position of the body is 
 reversed, and the other arm is to be then exercised in like 
 manner. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles chiefly acted on in this exercise 
 are those which straighten the arm (the extensors), the del- 
 toid muscle, and also the muscles of the chest and back, 
 especially such as are attached to the shoulder blade (sca- 
 pula), thus strengthening and developing those regions. 
 
 5. Lateral Flexion and Extension. (Figure 16.) 
 
 Position. The position of the pupil in this exercise is 
 precisely the same as that in the preceding, with the 
 exception of the distance from the machine being aug- 
 mented to about the space of twelve inches. 
 
 Exercise. With the hand nearest the machine (say the 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 37 
 
 right) the pupil is to take hold of the handle with the 
 fingers (not grasping it), by extending the arm. The handle 
 is now to be drawn up to the centre of the chest, and then 
 by dropping it between the first finger and thumb is pushed 
 across to the other shoulder ; the arm being extended as 
 much as the position of the body will allow of, continue 
 the exercise by allowing the arm to return to its former 
 situation, repeating the movement forward and backward 
 until completed. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles chiefly acted upon are princi- 
 pally those of the chest, arms, back and shoulders. 
 
 6. Adduction, with Permanent Extension. (See Figure \ 6.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is again to be placed as in the 
 last exercise. 
 
 . Exercise. One of the middle handles being held firmly, 
 (say with the right hand, it being in this instance the 
 nearest to the machine,) is to be brought across the body 
 at the full length of the arm, never allowing it to bend at 
 all ; the shoulder joint being the centre from which the 
 arm moves, and the hand, of course, in its movement will 
 describe part of the circumference of a circle, in its progress 
 forward, or from the machine. It must be observed, that 
 in this exercise the body is to be kept perfectly still, the 
 only part moveable being the arm at the shoulder. The 
 arm or hand, when it has arrived at the farthest point, is 
 again to return towards the machine, resisting in its transit 
 the weight, so as to allow of no jerk being given to the 
 limb. When the required number of movements have 
 been performed with the right arm, then the left is to be 
 used in like manner. 
 
 Muscles. All those muscles whose office is to draw the 
 arm towards the body (adductors), are brought gently and 
 
S8 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 effectually into action. The muscles of the chest (thorax, 
 the pectoral muscles) being the chief actors in this instance, 
 as also the biceps; the body (shoulder) being the fixed 
 point. The general muscles of the arm in keeping it, 
 straight, and those of the fore-arm in maintaining the 
 grasp, are also beneficially exerted. 
 
 7. Abduction, with Permanent Extension. (Figure 17 .; 
 
 Position. The position of the pupil is the same as that of 
 the last exercise, only placed a little closer to the machine. 
 
 Exercise. This is the reverse of the one just described. 
 The left hand in this exercise is passed across the body, and 
 to take a firm grasp of the handle, the arm being kept per- 
 fectly straight. The action of this exercise is then, not as 
 in the preceding, from the machine and towards the body, 
 but/rom the machine and/row the body. The arm through- 
 out is to be kept perfectly extended, and when arrived at 
 its farthest point, at the side of the body, the hand is to be 
 on a level with the shoulder ; from this point the movement 
 is to be the reverse of the last, being drawn back into the 
 first position by the weight, but resisting it to avoid the 
 possibility of any jerk being communicated to the limb. 
 The movement to and fro to be continued for the prescribed 
 number of times, when the other arm is to be exercised in 
 like manner. 
 
 Muscles. From the nature of the exercise, and compar- 
 ing it with the last, it is obvious, that just the opposite set 
 of muscles are exerted, viz., the abductors of the arm, those 
 which have a tendency, either separately or jointly, in 
 moving the limb from the body, which would be those of the 
 back and shoulder inserted in the arm, latissimus dorsi, &c. 
 The fore-arm is extended on the arm and retained in that 
 position by the extensor muscles; and the muscles of the fore- 
 arm, used in maintaining the grasp, are also acted upon. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACIIINON, 
 
 Figure 17. Abduction, with Permanent Extension, 
 
 Figure 18. 
 Inclined Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 
SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 8. Inclined Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 18.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is placed in front of the machine, 
 with the back turned towards it ; the legs placed apart, 
 the hindermost foot (say left) being fixed close to the 
 bottom of the machine, and the foremost (right) about two 
 feet from it, the heel being opposite the instep of the hind 
 foot ; the knee of the right leg to be bent, while that of the 
 left is to be perfectly extended. The body to be leaned 
 forward over the advanced leg. Before assuming thi^ 
 position, the two highest handles are to be taken hold of 
 with the tips of the fingers, with the hands across one 
 another, that is to say, the right hand will take hold of the 
 left handle and the left the right, so that by drawing them 
 out and giving a smart turn of the body, passing them over 
 the head, the arms will be found in position behind the 
 body, and quite extended. 
 
 Exercise. In commencing the exercise, one arm is to 
 be brought down, without bending it in the least, until in 
 front of the body, as low as possible ; as this arm ascends, 
 the other is to perform the same movement and descend, 
 until it has arrived at its farthest point ; minding always, 
 that neither bend in the slightest degree, so that when 
 one is over the head, the other will be in front of the body; 
 when this has been repeated the required number of times, 
 then both arms are to be brought down together, anc) like- 
 wise to ascend ; the feet are then to be reversed at the ter- 
 mination of the first part of the exercise, and a similar 
 series of movements performed. 
 
 Another form of this exercise is that of allowing the 
 arms to go backwards at full length from the first position, 
 describing in their movement the circumference of a circle ; 
 the opposite to this movement may also take place, that is 
 to say, instead of the arms going to the back of the trunk 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 41 
 
 at the commencement, they are first to come to the front 
 and so continue downwards, as in the eighth exercise, 
 completing the circle as they pass upwards behind the 
 back ; the arms in either exercise may be kept extended, 
 or flexed at pleasure. (See Fig. 19.) 
 
 Muscles. The muscles of the arms, chest, neck and 
 back, are all acted upon in this exercise, which is ex- 
 tremely beneficial to the state of contraction of the chest, 
 so prevalent in the greater portion of the youths of both 
 sexes. 
 
 9. Upward Traction, with Arms passed behind. (Figure 20.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, with the heels close together, toes 
 apart and knees straight, is to stand erect, with the back 
 towards the machine, the head being kept well up ; the 
 arms are now passed behind the lower part of the trunk, 
 and by bending the knees the handle (placed at the bottom 
 of the apparatus for that purpose) is to be taken hold of at 
 the extremities with both hands, drawing it a degree up- 
 wards as the knees are again straightened ; the trunk must 
 now be in line with the legs, and inclined slightly forward, 
 with a projection of the chest, taking care to throw the 
 shoulders well back. 
 
 Exercise. The handle, which is now held simply by the 
 fingers of both hands (not being grasped in the least), is to 
 be drawn upwards as high as possible, until the hands 
 touch the lower angle of the shoulder blades; the handle 
 from this position is now again to descend, as the arms are 
 gradually extended, until it reaches the lowest point be- 
 hind the body, as in the commencement of the exercise. 
 By a repetition of this movement for the given number of 
 times the exercise will be completed. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles which are thus brought 
 into action are ihefaxors of the arm, in combination with 
 
42 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 those whose office it is to move the shoulder blades (sca- 
 pula) upwards, as the trapeziiis, levator scapula, &c. 
 
 
 
 10. Lateral Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 21.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to stand to the front of the 
 machine,, merely presenting one side, the feet apart, firmly 
 fixed on the floor, and the knees flexible. One of the 
 top handles is then to be taken hold of with one hand, say 
 the right, that side being the one nearest the machine, the 
 arm being kept perfectly straight. 
 
 Exercise. From the above position, the arm is to be 
 brought downward, perfectly extended, until it rests on the 
 side of the body ; it is again to rise and so repeat the move- 
 ment for the number of times required ; when the other 
 arm is to go through the same movement. 
 
 Muscles. This exercise is intended to have the effect of 
 strengthening the extensors of the arm, and those muscles 
 whose office it is to draw the arm to the body (the ad- 
 ductors). Some fibres of the pectoral muscles, as also the 
 trapezius, are duly exerted, whilst of course the chest is 
 beneficially acted upon. 
 
 11. Downward Lateral Rotation, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 21.) 
 
 Position. The pupil must be placed precisely as in the 
 last exercise. 
 
 Exercise. The arm being of course extended, is then to 
 perform exactly the same movement in the commencement 
 as in the forgoing exercise, and then, instead of stopping 
 at the side of the body, is to pass to the front of it and con- 
 tinue round, forming a circle, until again arrived at the first 
 position, the arm throughout never flexing in the least. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYM ACIIt NON. 
 
 43 
 
 Figure 19. 
 
 Figure 20. 
 Upward Traction, with Arms passed behind. 
 
44 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 The other arm, by altering the position of the body, is 
 then to be similarly exercised. 
 
 Muscles. This exercise has for its object that of expand- 
 ing the chest, and also strengthening it, at the same time 
 as the shoulder joint is freely moved, and consequently all 
 those muscles connected with it, in unison with those brought 
 into action in the preceding exercise. 
 
 12. Upward Lateral Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 22.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, being placed as in the two preced- 
 ing exercises, is to take hold of one of the middle handles 
 with the hand in the supine condition, the arm being kept 
 quite extended. 
 
 Exercise. The arm, say the right, is now to be brought 
 quite over the head, without moving the body in the least, 
 and then again gradually to fall into the first position. 
 This up and down movement to be repeated for a certain 
 number of times, when the opposite limb is to be used in 
 like manner. 
 
 Muscles. Again some of the muscles of the chest, and 
 such as are destined to raise the arm (deltoid), are, through 
 the practice of this exercise, much strengthened. 
 
 13. Upward Lateral Rotation, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 22.) 
 
 Position. The pupil to be placed as in the preceding 
 exercise. 
 
 Exercise. The same movement is to be performed in 
 the commencement as in the last, but instead of stopping 
 over the head, the hand is to be continued onwards until, 
 in describing a circle, the point of starting has again been 
 attained. This, like all the other movements, must be 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACH1NON. 
 
 45 
 
 Figure 2 1 . 
 Lateral Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension, 
 
 Figure 22. 
 Upward Lateral Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 
4-C) SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 continued for a certain number of times, when the other 
 arm is to be used in the same way. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles brought into play in the pre- 
 ceding are duly exerted more completely, as are also the 
 pectoral muscles. 
 
 14. Downward Forward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 23.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed facing the front of 
 the Polymachinon. One or both of the top handles must 
 then be taken hold of, the arms being kept perfectly straight; 
 the feet, separated, are to be fixed firmly on the floor. 
 
 Exercise. One hand is now to be brought down, and 
 passed as far behind as possible, with the arm perfectly 
 extended; this is again to ascend, whilst the other is 
 brought down, and so the exercise is to continue for a 
 given number of times, when both arms are to be used 
 together. 
 
 Muscles. All those muscles that are attached to the 
 arm, and have a tendency to draw it nearer to the body 
 (adductors), are brought into play. The biceps forms in 
 this instance one of them, and of course the trapezius, 
 c., is fully exerted. 
 
 15. Direct Forward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 24.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, placed with the back to the front 
 of the machine, with the feet apart, one placed before the 
 other, firmly . planted on the ground, will pass the hands 
 behind, and take hold of the two middle handles, leaving 
 both arms quite extended. 
 
 Exercise. One arm is now to be brought directly for- 
 ward, until it has reached the height of the shoulder in 
 front of the body ; this is to descend, and assume the first 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 47 
 
 Figure 23. 
 Downward Forward Traction, with Permanent Extension, 
 
 Figure 24. 
 Direct Forward Traction, with Permanent Extension, 
 
48 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 position, whilst the other is brought forward ; when this 
 has been repeated the required number of times, then both 
 arms are to be used at once. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles actively exerted in this 
 exercise are those of the chest, arms and shoulder-blades, 
 whilst those of the lower part of the trunk are passively taxed 
 in opposing the weights, thus assisting the arms in coming 
 to the front of the body. 
 
 16. Erect Flexion, continued to Downward Extension. 
 (See Figure 12.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed under the projecting 
 arm of the Polymachinon, as directed in the first exercise 
 of movement of arms (page 31). 
 
 Exercise. This is precisely the same as the first exercise 
 (erect flexion) of movement of the arms, in the commencement; 
 then, instead of the arms stopping on the chest, and again 
 ascending, they are to be gradually extended downward 
 by the side of the body, and from this position allowed 
 gently to ascend ; first one arm is to be used, then alter- 
 nately, and finally both together, for the required number 
 of times. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles called into play are the bi- 
 ceps, pectoral) and some of the dorsal muscles; and also the 
 extensors of the arms, in the downward portion of the ex- 
 ercise, receive great power through the movement imposed 
 upon them. 
 
 17. Inclined Forward Traction. (Figure 25.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, placed facing the front of the 
 Polymachinon, will take hold of the two top handles with 
 the hands, and draw them out towards the body, and 
 remain in position with both arms extended. The feet 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYM ACHINON. 49 
 
 are to be separated, one placed before the other, and firmly 
 planted on the floor. 
 
 Exercise. One arm is now to be gently flexed, and the 
 hand drawn up close to the chest ; as this arm gradually 
 extends the other is to be bent, and so the exercise is to 
 continue, the arms moving alternately. The feet are then 
 to be reversed and a similar series of movements performed, 
 when both arms are to be used together (see Figure 24). 
 The exercise terminates when the required number of 
 movements have been performed. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles mostly called into play in this 
 exercise are the biceps and pectoralis, major et minor, &c. 
 
 The Figure to this Exercise will be found at the end of the Work. 
 
 MOVEMENTS OF TRUNK AND ARMS. 
 
 1. Upward Brachial Traction, with Movement of Trunk. 
 (Figure 26.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be placed erect, opposite the 
 apparatus, the heels together and toes apart; the knees 
 are to be kept flexible, not by any means stiff or rigid ; 
 inclining the body forward, with the head downward, the 
 handle, which is situated at the base of the machine for 
 that purpose, is to be taken hold of by both hands, one 
 at each extremity, not grasping it, but letting it rest on 
 the first phalanx of the fingers, the thumb quite apart, 
 with the arms extended. 
 
 Exercise. The first movement is to proceed from the back, 
 it being gradually extended on the loins, the arms at the same 
 time bending upwards, until they are perfectly stretched 
 over the head, with the trunk quite erect ; the handle, it 
 must be observed, has now changed its position in the hand, 
 
 D 
 
50 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 and instead of being on the fingers, on its progress upwards, 
 has shifted and rests between the thumb and first finger ; 
 from here it must descend, by bending the arms and allow- 
 ing the trunk to come forward, until arrived at the position 
 of starting ; the exercise is completed when the number 
 of times upwards and downwards have been performed. 
 This exercise may be performed without bending the arms, 
 keeping them always quite extended. 
 
 Muscles. The back in this exercise is chiefly acted on, 
 and consequently its chief muscles ; the arms, chest and 
 legs also undergo a fair amount of exertion. The prin- 
 cipal muscles of the back are the trapezius, sacro-lumbalis, 
 longissimus dor si, *c., and, in fact, all the muscles undergo 
 a general action ; the deltoid acts in raising, w T hile the biceps 
 acts in bending the arm ; the muscles also of the chest are 
 duly exerted, as well as those (extensors) of the leg. 
 
 2. Prone and Supine Movement of Trunk, with Brachial 
 Flexion and Extension. (Figure 27.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is to be seated on the graduated 
 stool, with the feet resting against the board placed for 
 that purpose, the heels together and toes apart, the body 
 erect, with the handle in hand, each being placed at the 
 extremity of the staff, the knees slightly bent, and elbows 
 close to the side. 
 
 Exercise. This exercise is somewhat similar to that of 
 rowing in a boat. The body is to be dropped forward over 
 the knees, at the same time extending the arms fully, and 
 reaching as far over the toes as possible ; then, by pressing 
 with the feet against the board, the body is to be brought 
 well back, until the shoulder blades rest on the pad of the 
 stool placed behind for that purpose, the arms bent, and the 
 elbows close to the side, the hands being brought to about 
 the height of the chest ; repeat the movement forwards and 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON, 
 
 Figure 26. 
 Upward Brachial Traction, with Movement of Trunk. 
 
 Prone and Supine Movement of Trunk, with Brachial Flexion 
 and Extension. (Figure 27.) 
 D 2 
 
52 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 backwards until the conclusion of the exercise. One hand 
 may be used singly, in place of both, using first one and 
 then the other. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles acted on in this exercise are 
 precisely the same as those in the preceding one, with the 
 exception of the muscles of the chest. 
 
 3. Lateral Traction of Trunk, with Brachial Traction. 
 (Figure 28 ) 
 
 Position. Place the body sideways towards the ma- 
 chine, in a manner so as to present one shoulder (say the 
 right), separate the legs, leaving an interval of about two 
 feet from foot to foot, the knees quite straight, that is 
 flexible with no stiffness ; take hold of the handle, which 
 is at the bottom of the apparatus, in this instance with the 
 right hand, the arm quite extended, the left arm hanging 
 down by the side, or the hand placed on the hip; the 
 body quite erect, and the head neither turned to one side 
 nor the other. 
 
 Exercise. Commence by drawing the handle up to the 
 side, at the same time bending the body over to the oppo- 
 site side as low as possible, without allowing it to fall or 
 incline forward, (if at all out of the perpendicular it must 
 be backwards,) until the handle touches the side, as high 
 as possible under the arm ; from this position the trunk is 
 to follow the arm as it descends, until stretched as much 
 over on that side, as it was on the other ; continue the 
 movement from side to side to complete the exercise, very 
 gently and gradually, for a certain number of times ; then 
 turning the body round and presenting the left shoulder to 
 the apparatus, perform the same movement with equal care, 
 observing the same rules until the exercise is finished. 
 
 Muscles. This exercise calls into action the oblique 
 muscles of the abdomen (oMiquus externus et intermix) 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Figure 28. 
 Lateral Traction of Trunk, with Brachial Traction. 
 
 Figure 29. 
 
 Prone and Supine Movement of Trunk, with Flexion and 
 Extension of Legs. 
 
54 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 most efficiently ; the quadratus lumborum is also exer- 
 cised, as well as the intercostal muscles, the serratus magnus 
 and the pectoral muscles. Thefazors and extensors of the 
 arms are also brought actively into play. 
 
 4. Prone and Supine Movement of Trunk, with Flexion and 
 Extension of Legs. (Figure 29.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, seated on the graduated stool, 
 placed at a correct distance from the machine for that 
 purpose, so as to allow of the proper flexion and extension 
 of the legs (of course where the legs are long, as is the case 
 with a tall person, the distance must be increased ; if the 
 person is short, the reverse is to take place), places both 
 feet (with the heels united and toes apart) against the 
 base of the machine ; here the body must be bent over the 
 knees, and taking hold of the padded handle with both 
 hands, one at each end, draws it towards and passes it over 
 the head, laying it on the shoulders, taking care when this 
 is done to place the hands on the ropes, at about eighteen 
 inches from the handle, so as to prevent the possibility of 
 its slipping off. 
 
 Exercise. The pupil, having been placed in position as 
 directed, will commence slowly and gradually to lean back, 
 pushing the head in the same direction, until in a horizontal 
 position with the trunk and feet, the knees, of course, being 
 thoroughly extended ; let the body now ascend, until it is 
 again flexed over the knees at the loins; continue the 
 movement forwards and backwards, until the exercise is 
 finished. 
 
 Muscles. From the nature of this exercise, resembling 
 so closely that of the fourth exercise, it is evident that 
 the muscles acted upon in each are precisely the same, 
 with the exception of those of the arms, which being on 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 55 
 
 the cords, are inactive. The flexors and extensors of the 
 legs are alternately exerted, as also the extensors, or rather 
 erectors of the trunk on the loins, and those of the neck 
 and head on the trunk. Through this movement, the 
 whole complex of dorsal muscles is brought into a thorough 
 state of action, without using the upper limbs. 
 
 5. Semi-Rotation of Trunk, with Brachial Flexion and 
 Extension. (Figure 30.) 
 
 Position. The object of this exercise being that of 
 expanding the chest, at the same time acting upon the 
 loins, the pupil, as in most of the standing positions, is to 
 be placed, quite erect, opposite the front of the Poly- 
 machinon ; the legs are to be kept rather bent and sepa- 
 rated about two feet ; the feet firmly planted on the 
 floor, directly opposite each other, so as to fix the body 
 securely ; the toe of the advanced foot pointing direct to 
 the machine (about two feet from the base of it), while 
 that of the other is directed outwards and parallel to it, 
 so as to throw the knee of the limb outwards, as also the 
 hip and shoulder ; it may be as well to observe here, that 
 whichever hand is highest in situation or position in the 
 exercise, the foot on the same side must be correspondingly 
 advanced; thus, if the right hand from this position takes 
 hold of one of the two highest handles in front of the 
 machine on that side, the arm being kept extended, the 
 corresponding foot must be placed forward, and vice versa. 
 
 Exercise. Following the rules laid down for the position, 
 the extended arm is to be drawn close to the side very 
 slowly and gradually, at the same time as the other is duly 
 extended, the shoulder being brought forward, or thrown 
 back, by a rotary movement of the hips (pelvis), in accord- 
 ance with the arm as it is extended, or contracted. This 
 
56 SYSTEM OF EXRKCISCS OF 
 
 cross movement being repeated the required number of 
 times, the position of the body, legs, feet and hands, is to 
 be reversed, in order to equalize the exercise and conse- 
 quent development of the whole system of muscles brought 
 into play. The same rules are to be observed when the 
 body is changed. 
 
 Muscles. Studying the various movements that the 
 limbs and trunk undergo in this exercise, it will be 
 observed, that the flexors and extensors of the lower and 
 upper limbs are alternately brought into action; while the 
 rotators of the trunk on the loins, and those of the head on 
 the trunk, are also exerted. Some of the dorsal muscles, 
 (especially such as are attached to the shoulder blade,) as 
 also those of the abdomen and chest are considerably acted 
 upon. From the multiplicity of muscles thus exerted, 
 this exercise is calculated to impart strength to the whole 
 system. 
 
 6. Rotation of Trunk, with Lateral Brachial Extension. 
 (Figure 31.) 
 
 Position. The position of the body is as in the lateral 
 extension of the arms (vide p. 32). 
 
 Exercise. This is in many respects like the fourth exer- 
 cise in movements of arms, only that the trunk, instead of 
 being stationary, is moved round on the loins, as the arm 
 is either flexed or extended; thus adding greatly to the 
 power of the movement, and requiring increased weight in 
 the machine. 
 
 Muscles. As already observed, the point in which this 
 exercise differs from the above-mentioned exercise is in 
 the rotation of the trunk on the loins; thus, besides 
 bringing into action the same muscles of the arms as in 
 that exercise, the oblique muscles of the abdomen and 
 rotators of the spine are strongly acted upon, creating 
 great power in those organs. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Fiyure 30. 
 Semi-Rotation of Trunk, with Brachial Flexion and Extension, 
 
 Figure 31. Rotation of Trunk, with Lateral Brachial Extension, 
 
58 
 
 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 7. Rotation of Trunk, with Lateral Brachial Flexion. 
 (Figure 16.) 
 
 Position. The body is placed as in the lateral flexion 
 and extension of the arms (vide p. 33). 
 
 Exercise. The handle, being held as in the above exer- 
 cise, is drawn from one side of the body to the other ; but, 
 instead of the body being kept perfectly still, it is to turn 
 on the loins as the arm is moved from one side to the other; 
 hence the difference between the two exercises ; this move- 
 ment gives much greater power to the whole body to per- 
 form the required exercise. 
 
 Muscles. The object of this exercise being that of 
 increasing the power and strength of the loins, it is evident 
 that, through the rotary movement given to the whole 
 trunk on that part, the desired end will be attained by 
 exerting and thus developing those sets of spinal and ab- 
 dominal muscles which are requisite to the movement. 
 The same muscles of the arm, chest, shoulders and shoul- 
 der blades, as in the exercise before alluded to, are also 
 acted upon. 
 
 8 & 9. Rotation of Trunk with Brachial Abduction and Adduc- 
 tion, with Permanent Extension. (Figures 16 5- 31.) 
 
 Position. The position of the pupil in these two exer- 
 cises is precisely like the two last. 
 
 Exercise. These exercises differ from the two last, 
 simply owing to the arm being kept extended throughout 
 the exercise, instead of being flexed and extended alter- 
 nately. 
 
 Muscles. In addition to those muscles which are acted 
 upon in the two last described exercises, we have all those 
 sets of muscles situated at the lower part of the trunk, 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 59 
 
 whose office is either separately or jointly to move it on 
 the loins in a rotary direction (rotators), called actively 
 into play, and also the extensors of the arm. 
 
 10. Downward Rotatory Brachial Traction, with Forward 
 Movement of Trunk. (Figure 32.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, standing erect, with the front of 
 the body towards the machine, heels together with toes 
 apart, having the knees quite straight (at a distance of 
 about three feet from the base of the Polymachinon), will 
 take hold of the handle (placed at about one foot from the 
 top of the apparatus for that purpose) with both hands, 
 one at each extremity, retaining the hold simply with the 
 fingers, taking care never to grasp it. 
 
 Exercise. The handle, in the commencement, is brought 
 down, not by flexing the arms, but by inclining the body 
 forward on them, and by a slight flexion of the lower limbs, 
 until it has arrived at a low point in front of the body ; 
 from this position it is now allowed to ascend, being drawn 
 upwards and towards the chest by bending the arms, thus 
 performing a rotatory movement at the shoulder, and con- 
 tinuing and finishing by extending the upper limbs, gra- 
 dually resisting the weight as it descends until the first 
 position is again attained. The exercise will be completed 
 when the number of times have been performed. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles that are acted upon in this 
 exercise are those whose office it is to move the trunk for- 
 ward, as the rectus abdominis, pyramidalis, psoas magnus 
 et parvus, whilst the muscles of the chest are beneficially 
 exerted in drawing the arms downwards, as the pectoralis 
 major et minor, by the development of which the chest 
 (thorax) is opened and wonderfully strengthened ; whilst, 
 on the other hand, the development of the abdominal 
 muscles before mentioned prevents, to a very great extent, 
 
60 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 many of those serious accidents, so frequently produced 
 through weakness of those parts, when the viscera are forced 
 against the cavity of the abdomen, as in lifting heavy 
 weights, &c. 
 
 11. Upward Traction of Trunk, with Flexion and Extension 
 Of Legs. (Figure 33.) 
 
 Position. The pupil in this exercise is placed in front 
 of the machine, in the erect position, with the heels to- 
 gether and toes apart, close to or within two inches of the 
 base ; the body is to be inclined forward, and with both 
 hands the padded handle at the bottom is to be taken hold 
 of at the extremities, passed over the head and deposited 
 on the neck and shoulders ; the hands are then removed 
 and placed on the cords, so as to steady it. 
 
 Exercise. From this position the body is to be gently 
 inclined forward, at the same time that the legs arc 
 gradually bent, continuing this until the body is seated 
 on the heels, and bent well forward over the knees, with 
 the head inclined rather downwards ; the reverse of this 
 movement is then to take place, by the head in the first 
 instance being gently forced upwards as the legs are 
 slowly straightened, when the trunk acting in uniformity 
 with the legs is gradually extended on the loins, until the 
 erect position is again attained. This movement down- 
 wards and upwards must be continued until the exercise 
 is completed. 
 
 Muscles. In this exercise the strength likely to be 
 acquired by the loins, back and neck, is evident from the 
 combined action of the different sets of muscles which are 
 brought into play throughout the movement, viz., the 
 trapezius, latissimus dorsi, sacro-lumbalis, longissimus dorsi, 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON, 
 
 61 
 
 Figure 32, Downward Rotatory Brachial Traction, with Forward 
 Movement of Trunk. 
 
 Figure 33. 
 Upward Traction of Trunk, with Flexion and Extension of Legs. 
 
62 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 &c. The extensors of the neck on the trunk, of the trunk 
 on loins, and thighs on legs, are all actively exerted, thus 
 developing the various organs of those regions. 
 
 MOVEMENTS OF THE LEGS. 
 
 1. Downward Traction or Extension. (Figure 34.) 
 
 Position. The apparatus for movements of the lower 
 extremities is, in most cases, placed at the back of the 
 Polymachinon, although instruments are made expressly 
 for their sole exercise. The pupil, who is to stand erect, 
 facing the machine, will pull down one of the two cords 
 (which are in front, and to which the proper slipper is 
 attached), then by raising the corresponding foot, will 
 adjust the strap, merely by slipping it over the toe to the 
 instep ; this foot is then to be replaced on the ground, when 
 the other is to be arranged in like manner ; the hands are 
 now either to take hold of the cords (not aiding at all in 
 the movement) or to rest on the side of the machine, the 
 head with the body to be always held well up. 
 
 Exercise. One foot is now to ascend, by bending the 
 knee and permitting it to rise as high as possible to the 
 front of the body, resisting in its ascent the weight, so that 
 no jerk may be given to the active limb ; from this posi- 
 tion the leg is again to be extended, forcing the foot 
 downward until arrived at the first attitude, when the 
 other limb is to perform a similar movement, continuing it 
 alternately until the required number of times is com- 
 pleted. Care must be taken throughout the exercise that 
 the cords must be always kept to the inside of the knees, 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Figure 34. Downward Traction or Extension. 
 
 Figure 35. Upward Traction or Flexion, 
 
61 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 never otherwise. Where either limb has any peculiar 
 defect to be remedied, of course the mode of applying the 
 movements must be regulated by the instructor. 
 
 Muscles. From the flexed position the limb is brought 
 downwards, through the combined actions of the extensors 
 of the leg, or rather thigh, on the trunk ; the principal of 
 which are the glutceus maximus, part of glutceus medius, 
 long head of biceps, semi-tendinosus, &c. ; and the leg is 
 extended on the thigh through the combination of the 
 rectuS) vastus extcrnus et internus, and crureus. Through 
 a perfect development of these various organs great strength 
 is communicated to the whole thigh, whilst the strength 
 acquired by the first class of muscles produces a beneficial 
 effect, inasmuch as by -them the trunk is kept in an erect 
 position when the limbs become fixed. 
 
 2. Upward Traction or Flexion. (Figure 35.) 
 
 Position. The pupil is placed, with regard to the 
 machine, as in the last ; the feet are then to be fixed in 
 the slippers which rest on the stool at the base of the 
 apparatus, the body assuming the erect position, with the 
 hands resting on the sides of the Polymachinon. 
 
 Exercise. Commence by raising one foot (say the right) 
 as high as possible in front of the body, by flexing the leg 
 at the knee, the front of the foot being directed upwards ; 
 the left leg is to be kept quite straight whilst the other is 
 in motion, and vice versa ; now allow the raised foot to 
 descend, gently resisting the weight, until it arrives in 
 position on the stool, with the leg perfectly extended as 
 in the commencement, when the left foot is to perform a 
 similar movement to the one just described ; taking care 
 that it is gradual, and that there is no jerk attending the 
 extension or flexion of the limb. The exercise terminates 
 when the required number of times have been completed. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACIIINON. 65 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles are such as are brought 
 into action when the thigh is flexed on the trunk, and the 
 leg on the thigh, namely, the psoas magnus, iliacus, pecti- 
 nceus, adductor longus et brevis, which are exerted in 
 bringing the limb forward; and the semi-tendinosus, 
 biceps, gracilis and sartorius, all originating in the pelvis 
 and inserted into the leg, are much strengthened in the 
 flexion of the leg at the knee, and have a most beneficial 
 effect in rectifying (when used in junction with the first 
 exercise) any weakness of those parts, producing deformity 
 of the knee, and consequently the whole limb, such as 
 knock-knee, &c. 
 
 3. Lateral Extension or Abduction. (Figure 36.) 
 
 Position. The same rules, as described in the preceding 
 exercise, for the position of the pupil, must be carefully 
 observed in this. 
 
 JExercise. In the commencement, one foot (with the leg 
 retained perfectly straight) is to be forced sideways (of 
 course, pulling with it the slipper and weight attached 
 thereto), not allowing it to come forwards or backwards, 
 or the trunk to incline in the least, either to one side or 
 the other, until the foot has reached the highest point on 
 that side of the body. In its downward progress the pres- 
 sure of the weight is to be resisted, so that no jerk may be 
 given to the limb; as soon as one member has completed 
 the required number of movements, the other must be 
 exercised in like manner, or the two legs may alternately 
 be brought into action. 
 
 Muscles. The chief are those which have a tendency to 
 separate the legs, viz. the abductors, and are in the fore- 
 going exercise duly brought into a perfect state of motion. 
 The gluteii, with the pyriformis, are thus invested with 
 
 E 
 
66 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 great power, and through their development contribute 
 greatly in sustaining the trunk in the erect position in the 
 various movements of the lower extremities. 
 
 4. Lateral Traction or Adduction, (Figure 37.) 
 
 Position. The pupil, being placed at the correct side of 
 the Polymachinon, is to fix one foot in the slipper pro- 
 vided for that purpose at the base of the machine (which 
 will be more easily accomplished by drawing it out). 
 When properly adjusted, the foot (which in this instance 
 will be the right) is to be separated from the left, and 
 allowed to be drawn into position by the weight, as repre- 
 sented in the annexed plate. 
 
 Exercise. The first movement is to proceed from this 
 foot being drawn towards the left, with the knee straight, 
 until both heels are touching on the floor ; from this po- 
 sition it is to ascend again; so the movement is to be 
 continued until the required number of times has been 
 completed. The position of the body is then to be reversed, 
 and the opposite leg used in like manner. 
 
 Muscles. The three adductors of the thigh on the pelvis 
 are in this exercise the chief muscles which are acted upon, 
 assisted by the psoas magnus, iliacus, gracilis, pectinceus, 
 &c. ; great strength is created in these organs through this 
 movement, and by their development the limbs are enabled 
 to grasp an object very powerfully, as in climbing a rope or 
 pole, or keeping one's seat on a bare-backed steed, where a 
 hold is secured merely through the grip of the legs. 
 
 5. Forward Traction. (Figure 38.) 
 
 Position. The pupil being placed standing erect with 
 the back to the machine, with both feet securely fixed in 
 the slippers used in the second exercise, the body inclined 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACII1NON. 07 
 
 Figure 36. Lateral Extension or Abduction, 
 
 Figure '37. Lateral Traction or Adduction. 
 E2 
 
68 
 
 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 rather forward, will take a step forward with one foot, 
 leaving the other at a proper distance behind, both being 
 attached to the proper weights. 
 
 Exercise. The hindmost foot is now to be brought for- 
 ward, with the leg slightly flexed until perfectly extended 
 to the front of the body, and as high as it is possible, with 
 the toe directed upwards ; from this position it is to fall 
 again gradually backwards, and assume the first position, 
 when the other limb is to be moved in like manner ; so 
 the movement is to be continued until the exercise is 
 completed. 
 
 Muscles. The combined actions of those whose office it 
 is to move the leg forward, are in this exercise fully brought 
 into play ; and thus the psoas magnus, iliacus, pectinceus, 
 adductor longus et brevis, being the chief sets of muscles 
 used in performing this movement, are through the con- 
 tinued gentle exertion effectually strengthened and deve- 
 loped; which, besides adding symmetry to the member, 
 aids with the preceding exercises in giving a proper com- 
 mand over the legs in any movement performed, either in 
 walking, running, climbing, &c. 
 
 6. Backward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 39.) 
 
 Position. The pupil or patient, with heels together, is 
 to stand erect, facing the machine, the hands resting on 
 the sides of the apparatus, at about the height of the 
 shoulders ; the heels are now to be carefully fixed in the 
 slippers, so as to prevent the possibility of their disen- 
 gaging, lest a sudden jerk (which would thus arise) might 
 shake the limb severely, and perhaps, if in a delicate state, 
 do some mischief. 
 
 Exercise. By pushing against the machine with the 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACIIINON, 
 
 69 
 
 Figure 38. 
 Forward Traction. 
 
 Figure 39. 
 Backward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 
70 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 hands, one foot is to be forced back as far as possible, with 
 the toe directed downwards, the leg throughout being re- 
 tained straight ; from this attitude the leg is to be allowed 
 to come forward (resisting in its onward progress the 
 weight, so that no jerk may arise), until again arrived at 
 the point of commencement, when the other leg in its turn 
 will be made to perform a similar movement backward and 
 forward. By an alternate movement of the limbs for the 
 required number of times, the exercise will be brought to 
 a termination. 
 
 Muscles. From the nature of the above-described exer- 
 cise, it will be perceived that it is calculated to bring 
 perfectly and freely into action all such muscles, or sets of 
 muscles, as are destined to move the leg directly backward, 
 when of course the trunk becomes fixed. Thus we ob- 
 serve, through a continuation of this movement, that the 
 development of the obturator internus, semi-tendinosus, 
 semi-membranosus, and part of adductor magnus, is satis- 
 factorily secured ; whilst all those which have a direct 
 tendency in moving the limb outwards, as in the third 
 exercise (Lateral Extension or Abduction), are, in combi- 
 nation with the foregoing, acted upon and strengthened. 
 
 7. Forward Rotation. (Figure 38.; 
 
 Position. The rules, as laid down in the fifth exercise, 
 for the position of the pupil, must in this be carefully ob- 
 served. 
 
 Exercise. One foot is now to be brought to the front 
 of the body, with the knee perfectly extended as high as 
 possible. From this point it is to be passed backwards, 
 describing in its transit a semicircle, by forcing the foot 
 gradually to the outside, and performing a rotary move- 
 ment at the hip-joint, until the foot has reached the farthest 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 71 
 
 point behind the body, when it is to be brought into posi- 
 tion with its fellow on the floor ; the other foot is now to 
 perform a similar movement, and so on alternately, until 
 the required amount of exercise has taken place. 
 
 Muscles. Those muscles whose office it is to move the 
 limb forward, as in the fifth exercise, are, in combination 
 with such as are duly exerted in the third exercise, brought 
 thoroughly and perfectly into action. The chief will be 
 ihepsoas, iliacus, &c., in unison with the gluteiiypyriformis, 
 &c. This exercise is calculated to give a perfect degree 
 of freedom in the hip-joint, where stiffness, produced from 
 some cause or another, exists, and assists materially in 
 effecting an elegant and easy carriage. 
 
 8. Backward Rotation. (Figure 89.) 
 
 Position. The pupil in this exercise must be placed as 
 in the sixth exercise, observing, particularly, all the rules 
 laid down therein. 
 
 Exercise. One foot, say the right, must now be forced 
 gently and gradually backwards, until as far and raised as 
 high as possible behind; from there it is to be brought 
 forward by a circular movement at the hip-joirit (similar 
 to that described in the preceding exercise, only instead of 
 a backward movement it will be the reverse), until the foot 
 has reached its point of destination in front of the body, 
 when it is to be brought in position close to the left, which, 
 on its becoming fixed, will perform a similar movement, 
 until the number of times required for the completion of 
 the exercise has been executed. It must be recollected, 
 and attention paid thereto, that the knees are to be kept 
 perfectly straight throughout the whole of the exercise, 
 and that not the least jerk must be aUowed to be felt by 
 the limb. 
 
2 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 Muscles. Those muscles which are brought into play 
 in this exercise, are such as move the limb backwards, as 
 in the sixth exercise, in combination with those whose 
 office it is to move the leg sideways, as in the third exer- 
 cise; thus giving, through their development, increased 
 power in unison with the muscles acted upon in the last- 
 described exercise, in acquiring and perfecting the results 
 therein indicated. 
 
 9. Reclined Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 (Figure 40.) 
 
 Position. The pupil being in a recumbent posture on 
 the back, on the graduated couch, will have the feet fixed 
 and well secured in the proper straps. 
 
 Exercise. One leg, which is in the air, supported by the 
 cord, is now to be brought down at full length and placed 
 by the side of its fellow, when the other leg is to ascend, 
 never allowing it to bend in the least ; when the required 
 number of movements have been executed by each leg, 
 then both limbs may be used together. Another form of 
 this exercise is to flex the limb as it ascends and extend it 
 as it descends. (See Fig. 41.) 
 
 It may be well to add, that all the movements of the 
 upper and lower extremities may be performed in the 
 recumbent posture, and even when required, both arms 
 and legs are exercised at one and the same time. The 
 pupil is generally to lie down during these exercises, when 
 any weakness of the spinal column is apparent. 
 
 Muscles. The muscles in the region of the hip-joint are 
 in this exercise chiefly brought into play ; thus, any weak- 
 ness of that part will speedily disappear. 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACUINON, 
 
 Figure 40. 
 Reclined Downward Traction, with Permanent Extension. 
 
 Figure 41 . 
 
74' SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 10. Flexion of Limb at Knee only. (Figure 42.) 
 
 Position. The pupil or patient, being seated, will place 
 both feet into the suspended slippers, adjusting one at a 
 time; the hands to be placed on the hips, or on the side of 
 the stool, or in front of the body ; the legs will rest up to 
 the joint on the edge of the stool or chair. 
 
 Exercise. At the commencement both legs are quite 
 extended, the first movement then is that of bringing one 
 foot (say the right) downwards (by bending the knee) until 
 it touches the ground, which motion is to be performed quite 
 slowly and without any jerk ; from this position the foot is 
 again to ascend whilst the left descends, and so the exercise 
 is to be continued until the required number of times have 
 been accomplished. Both legs are afterwards to be used 
 at the same time until the required amount of exercise has 
 been taken. 
 
 Muscles. The chief muscles acted upon in this exercise 
 are such as spring from the femur (thigh), that being the 
 fixed point, and are inserted in the bones of the leg, tibia 
 smdjibula, and have a direct tendency in bending the limb 
 at the knee, as the semi-tendinosus, biceps, gracilis, sar- 
 toriuSy &c. 
 
 In weakness of this delicate joint, so common amongst 
 growing persons, this movement has been proved to be 
 invaluable in perfectly and permanently removing defects, 
 even where they have been of some years' standing, unless 
 some actual disease exists. 
 
 11. Extension of Limb at Knee only. (Figure 43.) 
 
 Position. The pupil or patient, seated as in the foregoing 
 exercise, will have the feet secured in the slippers placed 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 Figure 42. 
 Flexion of Limb at Knee only. 
 
 Figure 43. 
 Extension of Limb at Knee only. 
 
76 SYSTEM OF EXERCISES OF 
 
 at the bottom of the apparatus, the hands resting on the 
 sides of the stool and the body erect. 
 
 Exercise. One leg now, say the right, is to be extended 
 gradually on the thigh, pulling with it the cord which is 
 attached to the weight, until the foot is raised as high as 
 possible in front of the body, with the toe turned upwards ; 
 from this position the foot is again to descend by flexing 
 the leg, until it is in contact with its fellow, as at the com- 
 mencement of the exercise ; as the right foot resumes its 
 former station, the left (which until now has been stationary) 
 is to be forced gradually upwards, by a similar movement 
 to the one described for the right, and so each foot will 
 move alternately until the number of times required have 
 been completed. Both feet are now to be moved at the 
 same time. 
 
 Muscles. This exercise it will be observed is precisely 
 the opposite to the preceding, this being an extension, 
 while the other was a flexion of the limb, consequently all 
 those muscles which exert an antagonistic influence towards 
 such as are duly exerted in the bending of the joint, will 
 be thoroughly and perfectly brought simultaneously into 
 action during the movement, the chief of which are the 
 rectus, crureus, vastus externus, and vastus internus. 
 
 These, through their development, aid thefaxors of the 
 knee in acquiring and preserving the symmetry of the joint, 
 and thus of the whole limb, giving it great power in sustain- 
 ing the body firm and erect, when even great weights are 
 placed thereon ; and preventing, to a very great extent, 
 the possibility of this complicated joint receiving any severe 
 concussion when jumping, or during any other severe 
 movement of the leg. 
 
 Casting a retrospective glance at the preceding pages, 
 it is quite evident, through the varied exercises which may 
 
THE GYMNASTIC POLYMACHINON. 
 
 77 
 
 be taken at the Polymachinon, that the whole muscular 
 system must acquire that strength and development 
 through means the most gradual and systematic 
 necessary to a perfect state of health of all organs of the 
 body, at the same time that symmetry is produced and 
 strength attained. 
 
 Figure 25. 
 Inclined Traction. 
 
 (The Exercise for this Figure will be found at page 48.) 
 
 J. Bradley, Printer, 78, Groat Titchfield-strc-f t 
 
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