President Donald Trump is set to reinstate the Presidential Fitness Test for American schoolchildren during an event at the White House on Thursday. This initiative aims to promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles among young Americans. Originally established in 1966, the program assessed various physical abilities such as running, sit-ups, pull-ups, and flexibility. A significant overhaul in 2012 during the Obama administration transitioned focus from athletic performance to personal health metrics under the Youth Fitness Program.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the President’s intention is to foster a culture of health and excellence for future generations. As part of this revival, Trump will sign an order to reestablish the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, which will report to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The council will also create criteria for a new Presidential Fitness Award.
The event is expected to feature several prominent athletes, including golfer Bryson DeChambeau, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, and golfer Annika Sorenstam. However, some attendees have faced controversy in their public lives. Butker has made headlines for polarizing comments regarding women’s roles and various social issues, while Sorenstam has drawn criticism for accepting honors from Trump amid political turmoil. Former NFL star Lawrence Taylor also joins the list of controversial figures due to his past legal troubles.
This initiative underscores a renewed commitment to enhance children’s health and fitness, aiming to inspire them to pursue lifelong healthy habits. By promoting physical activity in schools, it is hoped that a generation of more active, health-conscious individuals will emerge, setting a positive precedent for the future.