Use of the Leg Muscles. - Is and the muscles observed in this plate are the principal instruments for carrying out the behest of the will in the act of walking, running, leaping, climbing, and the graceful, gliding motions of the interesting and captivating waltz; and although we see a complicated piece of machinery, yet there is perfect order.  Harmony, promptitude and exactness prevail, not only in the skillful manner in which they are individually and collectively range, but in the action of the different muscles, each one of which performs its duty either independently of, or in connection with, its fellow lever, and that, too, without interfering in the slightest degree with the functions of the others.

Later on in this book we will start to see some examples of muscle building exercise.  There was some strength equipment used back then that largely consisted of free weights and many of the exercises could still be employed today despite the fact that many of the exercises have been perfected for form.