WASHINGTON, DC—August 1, 2025—The Health & Fitness Association today issued the following statement in response to President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order reestablishing the President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition (PCSFN) and reinstating the Presidential Physical Fitness Test as a national benchmark for youth fitness.
The Executive Order reflects a renewed federal focus on combating physical inactivity and obesity by elevating the importance of structured physical education and measurable fitness standards for youth.
Liz Clark, president and CEO of the Health & Fitness Association, stated:
"Physical inactivity is taking a toll on every aspect of our nation—from rising rates of anxiety and depression to record levels of obesity and even weakened military readiness. Today, an estimated 60% of young Americans fail to meet weight eligibility and physical preparation standards for participating in basic training, largely due to obesity, inactivity, and other preventable health issues.
"We commend the administration for restoring national leadership on youth fitness. The reestablishment of the President’s Council and Fitness Test affirms that physical activity is a public health priority. Instilling lifelong habits of movement in our youth is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve the nation’s well-being."
A National Crisis in Physical Inactivity and Chronic Disease
The need for urgent federal leadership is underscored by the country’s declining physical health:
- Only one in six high school students (16.0%) meet the national physical activity guidelines for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises during leisure time.
- Among adults, 75% do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercise.
- Nearly 90% of the nation’s $4.9 trillion in annual healthcare spending goes toward treating people with chronic diseases and mental health conditions, with physical inactivity identified as a major contributing risk factor.
- Rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and anxiety among children and teens have continued to climb, exacerbated by sedentary behaviors and reduced access to physical education in schools.
Mike Goscinski, vice president of government affairs for the Health & Fitness Association, added:
"The return of the President’s Council and Fitness Test comes at a pivotal time. Our national network of fitness facilities and professionals is uniquely positioned to support this mission by offering access, infrastructure, and proven expertise in youth engagement. We stand ready to partner with the Council to bring these goals to life in communities across the country."
Mobilizing the Fitness Industry to Support PCSFN
As the leading voice for the health and fitness industry, the Health & Fitness Association is equipped to assist the President’s Council through:
- Facility Engagement: Partnering with local operators to host fitness assessments, events, and school-aligned programs.
- Expert Guidance: Offering insight into program design, delivery, and evaluation rooted in decades of member experience.
- Equity in Access: Identifying underserved communities and leveraging existing infrastructure to close participation gaps.
- Public Awareness: Supporting communication efforts that reinforce the importance of regular physical activity at every age.
