How the ‘Ready for Labor & Defense’ Complex Appeared in the USSR (PICS)
On March 11, 1931, the All-Union ‘GTO’ (‘Gotov k trudu i oborone’ or ‘Ready for Labor and Defense’) physical training complex was approved in the Soviet Union.
The physical training program was in effect in schools, colleges and universities – any Soviet citizen could undergo training, pass the standards, and proudly wear the ‘GTO’ badge.
A Soviet person had to be an advanced worker in production, an excellent athlete and a strong fighter in the ranks of the Soviet army.
Therefore, the ‘GTO’ complex included those disciplines that ensured physical development, as well as the skills necessary in labor and in military affairs. For example, running, jumping, throwing projectiles, shooting, driving, swimming, the ability to wear a gas mask and rowing. Later, they added running in a military uniform and with a rifle, cross-country running, ski jumping and self-defense.
The first badges of distinction for those who passed the ‘GTO’ standards were awarded in December 1931 – 35 people became their proud owners.
By 1941, a total of six million people had passed the ‘GTO’ Level I standards.
And, by 1975, their number exceeded 75 million.
Not only adults, but also children passed the ‘GTO’ standards.
It was easy to meet one of them in transport or at work. In the poem ‘The Story of the Unknown Hero’, Samuil Marshak described a real case. “A tram passenger saw a flame blazing in a window and a girl asking for help. He immediately ran to help and, climbing up the drainpipe, managed to save her. The name of the savior remains unknown – he has a ‘GTO’ sign on his chest. They don’t know anything else about him.”
