Tampa, FL – A federal youth fitness initiative brought Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to a Tampa high school Thursday
Kennedy visited Gaither High School with U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee to promote the return of the Presidential Fitness Test
The program measures students’ strength and cardiovascular endurance while encouraging healthier habits
The updated test evaluates three areas. Students can complete curl-ups or a plank for core strength, a one-mile run or 20-meter beep test for cardiovascular fitness, and right-angle push-ups or pull-ups for upper-body strength
Performance targets vary by age and sex. Students who reach the highest benchmarks in all three categories can receive the Presidential Physical Fitness Award
The National Physical Fitness Award recognizes another achievement level, while students who complete the test may receive participation certificates
Lee said restoring the program allows students to establish goals, challenge themselves and make their health a priority
Kennedy has promoted the test as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to address childhood obesity, chronic disease, sedentary behavior and excessive screen time
Federal health officials reported that nearly one in five American children is overweight or obese
The federal youth fitness campaign began during the 1950s and expanded under President John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy Jr.’s uncle
The Presidential Physical Fitness Award was established in 1966
The traditional test was replaced in 2012 by a program emphasizing personal health and improvement
President Donald Trump later directed the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition to restore it
Federal officials formally relaunched the test in June and said schools would begin administering it this fall using updated standards
