CHAPTER IX
PRELIMINARY FEATS OF ATTACK AND DEFENCE
It is quite probable that the average reader will glance through the preceding chapters and will turn then to this and to the succeeding chapters and try to pick up at once the principles of self-defence. If he does so he will make a mistake.
The principles of jiu-jitsu that are to be described now must rest on a foundation of thorough physical training. The work prescribed in earlier chapters, in the way of exercise, diet, bathing, fresh air, etc., should be faithfully followed before the student can hope to reap any benefit from the tricks that are to be described. Physical strength, and the conscious knowledge that comes from the possession of it, are requisite to ability to make the greatest use of the tricks. A weakling can employ them—but not to the best advantage. Yet
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