WASHINGTON — On Tuesday, President Donald Trump announced the revival of the Presidential Physical Fitness Award, marking a return of the annual physical fitness test to the nation’s schools. This move is part of his broader initiative to reintroduce competitive physical activities into the educational system.
Historically, the Presidential Fitness Test has been a staple in American public schools for decades, but it was gradually phased out during President Barack Obama’s tenure. The previous administration had shifted focus towards promoting long-term health rather than competition. Trump, however, had signed an executive order last summer to reinstate this traditional fitness assessment, which dates back to the 1950s.
“We’re bringing it back,” Trump declared during a ceremony held in the Oval Office, where he was joined by children and professional athletes. “My administration is committed to upholding our nation’s valued athletic traditions and instilling the principles of excellence and competitiveness in the younger generation.”
The original test evaluated students through various exercises, such as a 1-mile run and sit-ups. Those who performed in the top 15 percent for their gender in each exercise were awarded the Presidential Physical Fitness Award. While the specifics of the updated test have not been disclosed, the award’s reintroduction is confirmed.
During the announcement, Trump was accompanied by key Cabinet members, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Education Secretary Linda McMahon, and Housing Secretary Scott Turner. They were joined by children who participate in sports like football, volleyball, hockey, and golf.
Hegseth also revealed that the fitness test will be mandatory for students at 161 schools on U.S. military bases. He urged other schools nationwide to adopt the program, emphasizing its importance.
“We need young, strong, healthy Americans, whether you serve in the military or any other aspect of your life,” Hegseth said. “The idea that competition is bad is the beginning of decline of a nation.”
Trump, an avid golfer and sports enthusiast, emphasized the importance of balancing both physical and mental fitness, saying that it’s “all about the mind” at top levels of competition. He praised the athletes at the White House event while joking about his own fitness regimen.
“I work out so much, like about one minute a day, max – if I’m lucky,” Trump said.
Trump said he would be signing the first copy of the new award on Tuesday. After the Oval Office event, the kids were invited to the South Lawn to play sports to a soundtrack of songs like “YMCA” and “Eye of the Tiger.” Trump joined outside as the kids putted at a green, kicked soccer balls and threw a baseball with pitcher Noah Syndergaard.
The president connected the initiative to Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda. Speaking alongside Trump, Kennedy said it was “very unfortunate” that Obama discontinued the test and cited increased obesity among American children.
“We need to teach people how to win and how to lose and how to process victory and defeat,” Kennedy said.
Copyright © 2026 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
