President Trump is bringing back the old-school Presidential Fitness Test. This test, first started in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, was a way to make sure American kids stayed in shape. It included things like running a mile, doing push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a sit-and-reach stretch.
Now, with Trump putting it back in place on July 31, 2025, it’s a national message: Get up, get moving, and take pride in being healthy and tough.
MAKE AMERICA FIT AGAIN!
“I’m pleased to announce that we’re officially restoring the Presidential Fitness Test and the Presidential Fitness Award.” – @POTUS pic.twitter.com/8GgLW8cZ2O
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 31, 2025
Why Now?
In a statement on X, the White House said the test was coming back as part of “MAKE AMERICA FIT AGAIN!” – a spinoff of Trump’s well-known “Make America Great Again” slogan.
A 2013 study in the Journal of Pediatrics showed American kids’ aerobic fitness dropped 20% over the last 30 years. That means kids today, on average, are slower and less fit than their parents were at the same age.
Conservatives say that’s a serious problem, and not just for personal health – a strong nation needs strong people.
What Happened to It?
The original test lasted for decades. It reached its peak in the 1980s when students could earn awards for high performance.
In 2013, under the Obama administration, the test was scrapped. It was replaced by a softer program that focused more on overall wellness and less on measurable performance.
Critics said the old test was too competitive. Conservatives saw it as a clear example of the left watering down standards.
Participation trophies don’t build character. Effort and excellence do.
The Science Backs It Up
A 2019 CDC report found that kids who stayed active and fit were 5% less likely to be obese.
That might not sound like a big number, but when you think about millions of kids across the country, it adds up.
And the cost of obesity is high – not just for the kids who suffer health problems, but for taxpayers. A 2021 report from the National Institutes of Health estimated the U.S. spends $1.7 trillion every year on obesity-related health care.
By encouraging fitness early, Trump’s team says we can save money and lives down the road.
Time To Play The Game
Adding some star power to the launch, Trump brought in WWE wrestling legend Paul “Triple H” Levesque.
TRUMP JUST NAMED TRIPLE H TO RUN THE PRESIDENTIAL FITNESS TEST NATIONWIDE pic.twitter.com/qAEPTgmx7k
— Jack Poso (@JackPosobiec) July 31, 2025
Known for his strict workout routine and no-nonsense attitude, Triple H is expected to help promote the program to young people.
Also joining the effort are NFL kicker Harrison Butker and pro golfer Bryson DeChambeau. Together, they’ll serve on the revamped Presidential Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition.
It’s a smart move to get attention, and get kids excited about fitness again.
The Peanut Gallery Chimes In
The American Heart Association put out a study in 2022 saying fitness programs should focus more on long-term health and less on specific drills like push-ups or sit-ups.
Some argue the test might embarrass kids who aren’t naturally athletic.
Conservatives push back, saying the goal isn’t to shame anyone – it’s to inspire effort and improvement.
Life isn’t always fair. Kids need to learn how to push themselves, not just feel good.
When All’s Said and Done
Bringing back the test fits with Trump’s larger push for national strength – physically, economically, and culturally.
It’s not just about hitting the gym. It’s about getting back to the basics: hard work, discipline, and pride in our country.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
