In fact, the best methods of all forms of exercising and training always stop just short of fatigue.
Education and study ought to be planned on the same principle.

Exercise of either our muscles or our minds after they have begun to poison themselves through fatigue never does them any good, even if it does not do them serious harm; and, where the exercise is for the sake of building us up and developing our powers, it is best to stop for a little while, or change the task, as soon as we begin to feel distinctly tired, and then to try it again when we are rested.
[Illustration: A TRAINED BODY Ellery H.Clark, All-around Athletic Champion of America, 1897, 1903.] This is one of the secrets of the healthfulness and value of play and games for children, and for older persons as well.

When you get tired, you can stop and rest; and then start in again when you feel rested--that is to say, when your heart has washed the poisons out of your muscles and nerves.

In fact, if you will notice, you will find that nearly all play and games are arranged on this plan--a period of activity followed by a period of rest.

Some games have regular "innings," with alternate activity and rest for the players; or each player takes his turn at doing the hard work; or the players are constantly changing from one thing to another--for instance, throwing or striking the ball one minute; running to first base the next; and standing on base the next.