History

The DRL Sports Badge was initially introduced in 1913 by the Deutscher Reichs Ausschuß für Tauglichkeit (DRA) in two grades, Bronze and Gold. The Badge was conferred upon men who successfully passed the national physical fitness exam. In 1920, a silver grade was introduced, and as of 1921, women were also eligible to receive the decoration. The first version of the badge features the initials of “DRA”.

In 1933, the DRL (Deutscher Reichsbund für Leibesübungen) became to regulate the national physical fitness exam. To reflect the name of the organisation, the second version of the badge featured the initials “DRL” on the obverse. In 1937, a swastika was added to the obverse of the badge.

The Bronze Badge was conferred upon men and women (ages 18 to 32) who passed the five sections of a physical fitness test within a period of 12 months. The tests included: swimming, running, jumping, speed tests and weight throwing. Men and women had to complete different exercises within these categories.

There are examples of the Bronze Badge composed of bronzed iron.