Canadian troops during WW1

A physical training drill being demonstrated by Canadian WW1 casualties. The display took place at the shore end of Hastings Pier in February 1917. The idea was to show how the casualties became fit again using Swedish drill, an exercise system very popular at the time.The movements were mainly performed slowly and gently to develop balance and muscle control

A gymnastic display photographed at the shore end the Hastings Pier in February 1917. The participants were Canadian WW1 casualties who were demonstrating the beneficial effects of the Swedish Drill. The building behind is the old East Sussex Hospital, now the site of the White Rock Theatre.