JACKSON, MS – Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves signed an executive order on Thursday, October 30, 2025, to reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test in elementary, middle, and high schools across the state, with implementation slated for the 2026-2027 academic year. The move aligns with a broader national effort after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in July 2025, reinstituting the test nationwide.
Governor Reeves cited concerns over childhood obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor nutrition as the primary motivators for his decision. He emphasized the importance of encouraging physical activity and healthy eating habits to foster healthier adults in society.
A Return to Foundational Fitness Assessment
The Presidential Fitness Test, a long-standing tradition in American schools from the late 1950s until 2013, was a program designed to assess students’ physical capabilities. It traditionally included components such as a one-mile run, sit-ups, push-ups or pull-ups, a flexibility test (sit-and-reach), and a shuttle run.
The test was initially established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956, who created the President’s Council on Youth Fitness to address concerns about the fitness levels of American children compared to their European counterparts. For decades, it served as a benchmark for youth physical fitness, often culminating in awards for high achievers.
The Shift to Youth Fitness Programs and Recent Reinstatement
The original Presidential Fitness Test was phased out in 2013 under the Obama administration and replaced by the Presidential Youth Fitness Program. This successor program adopted a more comprehensive, health-related approach, focusing on personal growth and overall well-being rather than competitive performance. The Presidential Youth Fitness Program provided educators with resources for health-related assessments, professional development, and motivational recognition to encourage active lifestyles, minimizing comparisons between children and supporting individual fitness goals.
However, President Trump’s executive order in July 2025 reestablished the test, aiming to “make America healthy again” and inspire youth through character, competition, and confidence. Governor Reeves’ order follows directly from this national directive, positioning Mississippi as a participant in this renewed focus on traditional fitness assessments.
Implementation and Future Outlook in Mississippi Schools
Governor Reeves’ executive order outlines specific tasks for state officials to ensure a smooth reintroduction of the fitness test. State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney is directed to develop and propose evidence-based strategies, along with public information and education campaigns, to address deficiencies in nutrition, diet, and exercise across Mississippi.
Concurrently, State Superintendent of Education Dr. Lance Evans is tasked with collaborating with the U.S. Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Education to formulate a plan for effectively reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test in Mississippi schools. Both Dr. Edney and Dr. Evans are required to submit their respective reports by June 30, 2026.
The full implementation of the Presidential Fitness Test is set to begin with the 2026-2027 school year, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to youth physical education and health. This initiative underscores Governor Reeves’ broader commitment to improving Mississippi’s education system and fostering healthier communities.
