Physical Training.

Only the carefully trained and conditioned man can make victory possible.  For this reason the first and most important concern of a nation at war is the physical training of its soldiers.

The setting-up exercises are the basis for all other activities and their disciplinary value is almost as great as their physical value.

PHYSICAL TRAINING.—­Each period should include exercises for all parts of the body.  Following the setting-up exercises the following should be given in the order named:  marching, jumping, double timing, gymnastic contests, and concluding or restorative exercises.

Rifle exercises have for their purpose the development of “handiness” with the piece.  They should be used moderately and with frequent rests, for they develop big muscles at the expense of agility—­a muscle bound man cannot use his strength.

BAYONET TRAINING in addition to its military value calls into play every muscle of the body and makes for alertness, agility, quick perception, decision, aggressiveness and confidence.

Time Schedule.

A.M. (Begins 1/2 hour P.M. (End 1/2 hour
after breakfast):  before retreat): 

1.  Disciplinary exercises, 1.  Bayonet training, 30
   2 minutes. minutes.
2.  Starting positions, 1 2.  Games and contests,
   minute. 30 minutes.
3.  Setting up exercises, Alternating daily with: 
   20 minutes. 1.  Bombing practice, 20
4.  Marching and marching minutes.
   exercises, 5 to 8 2.  Conditioning exercises,
   minutes. 15 minutes.
5.  Jumping, 5 to 8 minutes.  Double timing.
6.  Double timing, 5 minutes Vaulting and overcoming
                                    obstacles.
                                 3.  Rifle practice, 10 minutes.

Instructions must be: 

1.  An inspiration to the men.
2.  Well prepared themselves.
3.  Stripped for action.
4.  An example to the men.
5.  Must make drill attractive.
6.  Never have men overdo.  Temper the exercises to the endurance of
the weakest man.
7.  Accompany every exercise with the proper breathing.
8.  See that the men are clothed according to the season.
9.  Have the drills short and snappy.
10.  Have frequent rests at the beginning—­less frequent as work
progresses.

The platoon is the best unit for physical drills.

FORMATIONS.—­When exercising in small squads, the men “fall in” in a single rank and, after having “counted off” by fours, threes or twos, as the instructor may direct, distance is taken at the command:  Take distance, March, Squad Halt.  At “March” No. 1 moves forward, being followed by the other numbers at intervals of four paces.  Halt is commanded when all have taken their distances.