Martina Bergman-Österberg Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Martina Bergman-Österberg (1849-1915) was a trailblazing Swedish physical education instructor who pioneered the physical education of women in Britain. Born in Sweden, she moved to London in the 1880s with a vision to promote the importance of physical training for girls and young women.

In 1885, Bergman-Österberg founded the Hampstead Physical Training College and Gymnasium at this location, 1 Broadhurst Gardens in Camden. It was the first physical education college in England aimed solely at training female instructors. The college later moved to Dartford, Kent in 1895 and became known as the Bergman Österberg Physical Training College.

Bergman-Österberg’s innovative approach to physical education incorporated Swedish gymnastics, dance, swimming, and outdoor games. She believed strongly in the importance of physical activity for women’s health, confidence and overall wellbeing – a progressive view for the Victorian era. Her college trained many of the first female PE instructors in Britain.

Through her dedication and leadership, Martina Bergman-Österberg played a key role in the development of physical education for women in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She left a lasting legacy, paving the way for greater female participation in sports and physical activity. The Bergman Österberg Union, founded in 1900, continues to promote her memory and pioneer spirit to this day.