Advancing health through science, education and medicine

Access Public Information

Health & Physical Activity Reference Database

Tobias Venner
Venner, Tobias, Via Recta ad Vitam Longam. Or a plain philosophical demonstration. . ., London: R. Bishop for Henry Hood, 1638.
Definition	Objective
	Exercise increases the natural heat, excites & dilates the spirits, the concoction & distribution holpen, attenuates the humors, resolves windinesse, furthers the expulsion of all excrement, strengthens the body, & prolongs youth. Venner, 287.
Frequency	Type / Mode
	Walking (especially after meat), bowling, the racket and such like easy exercises. The phlegmatick needs strong & laborious exercises while the cholerick needs easy & light exercises. Frication or rubbing should be used instead of exercise for those who suffer great weakness. Venner, 290, 292-4.
Duration	Time of Day	Intensity
	Use exercise after the 1st & 2nd digestions & the time to eat again approaches. Time (at least .5hr) must be observed between exercise and the following meal. Also before exercise the excrements of the belly & bladder should be expulsed. Exercise should also not be done in the heat of the day. For the phlegmatick: speedy walks in the morning, up hills & other steep places. Summer-light exercises, Spring-somewhat stronger, Autumn & Winter - strong & laborious motion recommended. Morning & evening best for frication. Venner, 289-90, 292-3, 295.	Measure of exercise by 2 things: (1) the bursting forth of sweat & hot vapours, and (2) the weariness of the limbs Venner, 291.

Learn more about designing and implementing exercise programs to help people avoid the onset of chronic disease and help those already diagnosed.…