The study analyzes the history of St. Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Physical Culture that has always been among the leaders of the national research in a wide range of physical education and sport training issues; and is proud of its renowned scholars and achievements in many research fields. Presently St. Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Physical Culture gives a high priority to research projects in the following fields: movement coordination qualities; natural psychological qualities and predispositions for specific activities; bodily physical and functional reserves and physical working capacity in the multiannual/ annual training processes; physical fitness, training and overtraining rating methods; physical and mental activity specifics under extreme conditions, including those in case of health limitations etc.