News Brief

Thursday, July 31, 2025 — 9:49 am

President Donald Trump said he plans to sign an executive order Thursday that would revive the Presidential Fitness Test in public schools.

The test — which has included running, throwing, jumping, pull-ups, push-ups and toe-touching — began under the Lyndon B. Johnson administration. It drew criticism, often from children themselves, for being a humiliating exercise. Former President Barack Obama retired it in lieu of an approach focused on individual health progress.

The White House says the test, which will be administered by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., will address “the widespread epidemic of declining health and physical fitness,” reported CNN.

“President Trump wants every young American to have the opportunity to emphasize healthy, active lifestyles — creating a culture of strength and excellence for years to come,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told CNN in a statement.

Trump plans to sign an order on Thursday that reestablishes the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. He will partner with high-profile athletes and sports organizations, who are expected to join him in a ceremony. The council will also develop criteria for a Presidential Fitness Award, the Associated Press reported.

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