US Presidential Fitness Test: Who are the 30 athletes backing Trump’s school fitness campaign? |
On Thursday, the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, reestablished the Presidential Fitness Test for American children. The test, which was a fixture in public schools for decades, analysed the youth’s health and athleticism through 1-mile runs, sit-ups and stretching exercises.“This is a wonderful tradition, and we’re bringing it back,” said the POTUS about the fitness test that was started in 1966 but was phased out during the Obama administration.“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.Along with the test, the executive order signed by him also reinvigorated a national sports council that he stocked with current and former athletes and other prominent figures from the athletic world.Supporting him in his decision were athletes present at the event, who will also be formal members of the council:Bryson DeChambeau, golfer at LIV Golf LeagueHarrison Butker, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Lawrence Taylor, Former New York Giants linebackerCody Campbell, former college football playerPaul Levesque, 14-time World ChampionAnnika Sorenstam, Swedish professional golferStephen Soloway, New Jersey physicianJack Nicklaus, retired golferGary Player, retired golferTony Romo, former Dallas Cowboys quarterbackSaquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles running backWayne Gretzky, hockey legendRoger Goodell, commissioner of the National Football LeagueOther members of the 30-member council are yet to be declared, and according to Trump, this council will also develop criteria for the Presidential Fitness Award.The fitness test was first introduced by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966, creating a school-based program that rewards “excellence in physical education”. However, it was abandoned by former President Obama and replaced with an assessment called the FitnessGram that focused on improving individual health. The then-first lady Michelle Obama also promoted her “Let’s Move” initiative that aimed at reducing childhood obesity through diet and exercise.
