President Donald Trump has officially reinstated the “Presidential Fitness Test” for public school students in the United States through an executive order, bringing back a tradition that began in 1966 but was gradually phased out during the Obama administration.
The fitness test will include a mile run, abdominal strength exercises, and flexibility assessments. Announcing the initiative, Trump called it “a wonderful part of our history” and emphasized its importance in promoting health and discipline among American youth.
“We’re bringing it back. It’s an important part of our tradition,” Trump declared during a White House ceremony, attended by professional athletes including golfer Bryson DeChambeau, NFL Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor, and Swedish golf champion Annika Sörenstam.
The order also reactivates the Presidential Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, now composed of up to 30 members including coaches, athletes, and public figures. The council will be led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and will address additional issues such as athlete mobility in college sports (transfer portals) and the establishment of a new national award: the “Presidential Fitness Award.”
“Sports have always been something I’ve loved,” Trump added. “When you’re focused on sports, you don’t think about the nonsense. Golf, for example, is an escape—for a few hours.”
Trump’s administration says the initiative aligns with broader preparations for major sporting events hosted by the U.S., including the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Olympic Games.
Despite the fanfare, reactions from the scientific and academic communities have been mixed. Kinesiology expert Prof. Laura Richardson said: “It’s a positive step, but insufficient. This shouldn’t be a pass-or-fail test. It should help build long-term fitness plans for each student.”
The event also stirred controversy with the appearance of Lawrence Taylor, who was convicted in 2011 for soliciting an underage girl and later arrested again in Florida. Taylor addressed the audience, stating: “I’m not exactly sure what I’m supposed to do, but I’m here to serve.”
While the administration emphasizes that the goal is not competition between children, but rather encouraging personal health and building lifelong habits, critics say careful implementation will be key to ensuring the program supports rather than pressures young students.
