The stooping posture assumed by so many ladies on the wheel is not only coarse and decidedly ugly, but exceedingly harmful, and will, in a very short time, tend to curvature of the spine, compression of the lungs and their consequent diseases. Many riders claim that one rides much more easily, when facing the wind, to bend forward, and thus break its force, but it were far better to ride a shorter distance than to risk the ills of which we have spoken. The limit of speed is only a little less important than the limit of distance, which is designated by the feeling of weariness. No man can ride at full speed for long distances and still retain health and perfect vigor, and it is certain, therefore, that no woman can maintain a high rate of speed for one mile without laying the foundation for future suffering. There is no relaxation of the tension of either muscles or nerves between the revolutions of the pedals.
Many ladies complain, after riding for a time, of a stinging sensation in the limbs and feet.
This is caused by the undue action of the heart forcing the blood into the arteries more rapidly than the veins can return it, and incipient paralysis or apoplexy may result. Some gallants provide themselves with tow-lines or chains, which they attach to their fair companion's wheel, and are thereby enabled greatly to assist her in rising long or steep hills. Many ladies, too, experience a greater sense of security when aware that they are not left entirely dependent upon their own efforts to maintain an upright position. Properly used, the bicycle is certainly a promoter of health, developing, as it does, muscles which are otherwise seldom brought into play. It secures for women that highly desirable condition of flesh, a firm, solid tissue, when muscles are flexed and a velvety softness with muscular relaxation.