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426
iv. education and mental cultulle.
but nothing like gymnastics in the present sense of the term existed. The
conception of the "Philanthropies" with regard to physical education was
never put into operation in Sweden.
Ling’s appearance at Lund in 1805, as fencing master to the university,
was the real beginning, and by the foundation of the Central Gymnastic
Institute (1813), on Ling’s initiative, the first and most essential step
forward was accomplished towards establishing that seat of learning
whence, as Ling’s prophetic eye had foreseen, the gymnastic idea should
spread throughout his country.
Per Henrik Ling.
He was supported in the execution of his plan by the powerful influence of
the leading spirits of the "Gothic Society" (Götiska förbundet), among whom he
was without doubt himself the most powerful champion, and the one destined
to emerge as the most influential in time to come.
At the above mentioned Institute, and at first under his direction, the system
of gymnastics has slowly but steadily developed in conformity with the
principles he laid down, and with his conception of the nature, properties, and
functional influence of the exercises.
According to Ling’s idea, the selection and kinds of exercises should be
based on the requirements of the body itself, which is consequently the object
of, as well as the principal instrument or implement for the performance of
the exercises. In many exercises, however, further apparatus is also needed,
and this has been devised with exclusive regard to obtaining the necessary
exercises. Through the correct use of apparatus, it becomes increasingly possible
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