Trump to Revive Presidential Fitness Test Amidst Controversy and Criticism
July 31, 2025
President Donald Trump is poised to sign an executive order that will reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test for school children, a program originally launched in 1966 but modified in 2012 to focus more on health than athletic performance.
The announcement event is expected to attract notable athletes such as Bryson DeChambeau, Harrison Butker, Annika Sorenstam, Paul 'Triple H' Levesque, and Lawrence Taylor.
While supporters see the revival of the fitness test as a motivational tool for children, critics express concerns that it could lead to body shaming and negative psychological effects for those who struggle to meet the standards.
Despite the initiative, questions arise regarding Trump's past skepticism about exercise, as he has previously suggested that physical activity may deplete energy rather than provide benefits.
DeChambeau has been appointed as the chairman of the council overseeing the initiative, reflecting his close ties to Trump, while other attendees have also had notable interactions with the president.
However, some of these athletes, including Butker and Sorenstam, have faced criticism for their past comments and associations with Trump, raising questions about their involvement.
A recent report highlighted worsening health trends among U.S. children, including rising obesity rates, indicating a pressing need for initiatives like the fitness test.
In addition to the fitness initiative, Trump has expressed concerns about college athletics, criticizing current practices and the treatment of college football players.
Details regarding the implementation and specific objectives of the reestablished fitness test remain unclear, leaving many questions unanswered.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that this initiative aims to foster a culture of strength and excellence among America's youth, promoting healthier and more active lifestyles.
Nonetheless, Trump claims to engage in more physical activity than people realize, citing walking and short runs as his forms of exercise.
The White House has yet to address the apparent contradiction between Trump's views on exercise and the launch of this new fitness initiative.
Summary based on 42 sources
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Sources

The Washington Post • Aug 1, 2025
Trump brings back presidential physical fitness test canceled by Obama
The Guardian • Jul 31, 2025
Trump signs executive order to bring back presidential fitness test in schools
The Guardian • Jul 31, 2025
Trump revives presidential fitness test – will US students run a mile?
USA TODAY • Jul 31, 2025
'Make America Fit Again': Trump brings back mile run, push up test for schools