Russian Holidays - Sportsman's Day
On the second Saturday in August, it is customary to celebrate the most “healthy” holiday - Athlete’s Day, the chronology of which began in 1939
Then the first mini-parade of Soviet sports figures was held The holiday is celebrated by discipline teachers in schools, technical schools and universities, as well as coaches, athletes and people who enjoy physical education and follow the principles of a healthy lifestyle
In the Soviet Union there was a cult of sports and physical education achievements The main slogan of those days was: “A healthy mind in a healthy body” The first specialized institute opened in 1918, and the very next year a congress dedicated to this “useful discipline” was held The first media outlet covering current issues in physical culture was published in 1922
A year later, the proletarian sports society “Dynamo” arose, which united law enforcement officers on a single platform And 12 years later, a legendary volunteer sports community called “Spartak” appeared
Physical education classes were very popular, sporting achievements were highly valued and rewarded Any mass demonstrations, parades and other celebratory events took place with the participation of gymnasts, track and field athletes, cyclists, football players and other athletes
Involvement in sports culture was on a grandiose scale Sports clubs and clubs were opened in schools, and independent physical education departments appeared in universities Professions related to physical education have become extremely in demand and decently paid
Sport has become a certain sphere of social activity that has a strong impact on all aspects of life, revealing the fullest psychophysical potential of a person Physical education not only strengthens muscles, but also spirit (helps develop character and perseverance in achieving goals)
On Athlete's Day, team competitions are held for tug of war and weight pushing distance It is customary to organize marathons, triathlons, as well as long and short distance races Winners of professional and amateur competitions are awarded with certificates, medals and cups
On this day, large groups often go out into nature, cook over an open fire, and fish in reservoirs They also go to rope parks, travel in boats, and rent kayaks, bicycles and other equipment Children and parents are invited to “Fun Starts” and all kinds of exciting relay races (sack running, long jump, beach volleyball, water polo)
Radio and television stations broadcast programs dedicated to sports achievements, biographies of famous athletes, success stories, and unique human abilities in a physical education context They often organize dynamic master classes and open lectures on the topics of healthy lifestyle, comprehensive training and nutrition programs