Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1906 edition. Excerpt: ... A STUDY OF THE HARVARD UNIVERSITY CREWS1 INTRODUCTION This investigation was undertaken at the suggestion of the Harvard Athletic Committee, by whom it was felt that a knowledge of the physiological changes occurring during severe training would be of value, and that incidentally data might be obtained throwing light on the obscure subject of over-training. It is intended to make a similar study of the effects of training for several other forms of athletic contests besides rowing, especially football and running. Since no similar research had, as far as known, been attempted, this first series of observations on the effect of rowing was regarded as tentative. It was doubtful how far the subject would lend itself to study, and hence it was thought best not to attempt too much until 1 Boston Medical and Surgical Journal, cxli, 9, 10, cxliv, 23. the more promising lines on which to work had been determined. Much of the work has been somewhat barren of result, while in other directions unexpected facts have been learned and the necessity for further study revealed. For example, it early became apparent that one of the most important parts of the investigation would concern the nutrition and tissue metabolism, but for want of suitable apparatus and in the absence of a chemist to analyze the food and excreta, this part of the work was done only in the most superficial way. It is hoped that a subsequent investigation will include a much more complete study of these important points. The greater part of the work which was thought to be feasible this year was a study of the changes taking place in the heart and kidneys, and a series of observations on the weight and temperature and their relation to the general condition of the men. The...
