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Volkssporting evolved from running races in Germany. Because most people were not in physical condition to run in competitive races and many who tried should not be exerting themselves in this manner, many realized there was a need for a different kind of event. An event which provided individualized exercise, recognized each participant's efforts, and remained noncompetitive. After this type event became popular in Germany and neighboring countries, an international federation was formed by Germany and three of it's neighbors. This federation is known as the International Volkssport Verband, or simply better known by it's acronym, IVV. Today, the IVV has expanded to include 26 member national organizations, including the United States. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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