Gymnastics,
women's
- Early physical education
- First instructors
- Physical culture
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- Curriculum expands
Physical Culture
In 1892, "physical culture" was introduced to students of the Ladies’ College by elocution instructor L. Jean Landers. Her program was based on the model established at the Emerson College of Oratory in Boston, Massachusetts, which is where the physical culture program originated. The new physical culture program replaced calisthenics and became a requirement for Ladies’ College students by 1893. The Saint John Telegraph newspaper (29 May 1895) explained the new system:
"... exercises are chosen with a view to giving both health and grace to the body. Beginning with gentle movements, the exercises gradually increase in strength until every muscle is brought in play, yet always gracefully, and never with undue violence. Special attention is given to the arm and chest movement."
Landers taught physical culture until 1895. From 1895 to December 1901, Louise C. Webster, who was trained at the Emerson College of Oratory, continued Landers’ work as both elocution and physical culture instructor.
Mount Allison Ladies' College physical culture drill, between 1890-1895
Mount Allison Ladies' College fan drill, 1899
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