 In 1896 the founder of a scientific system of fitness education, Pyotr Lesgaft (1837–1909), opened in Petersburg the courses of educators and leaders of physical education that eventually became a prototype of the higher-learning institutions in physical education established in the Soviet Union and abroad.In the beginning of the 20th century All-Russian unions on sports emerged and organized the first championships.In 1913 the took place in Kiev where some 600 people - including females - participated.