The Presidential Fitness Test is a performance-based physical fitness assessment program traditionally administered in schools to evaluate children's strength, endurance, agility, and flexibility. It was initially introduced in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to address concerns about declining physical fitness among American youth compared to their European peers. The test typically includes the following components, with age- and gender-appropriate variations:
- Pull-Ups or Flexed Arm Hang (boys usually do pull-ups; girls may do flexed arm hang)
- Sit-Ups or Curl-Ups (usually for 1 minute to measure core endurance)
- 50-Yard Dash (testing speed and explosive power)
- Shuttle Run (4x10 meters, assessing agility and quick changes in direction)
- 1-Mile Run or Walk (focused on cardiovascular endurance)
Scoring is based on percentile rankings considering age and gender, with awards given to those who score in the top percentiles. For example, scores at or above the 85th percentile in all events earn the Presidential Award. The test was discontinued in 2012 but was revived in 2025 by an executive order signed by President Trump, with added emphasis on personal discipline, patriotism, and inclusive options for mental health considerations. The revival includes digital tools for tracking progress and continues to issue awards for performance, national, and participation levels. It is aimed at rebuilding a culture of physical strength and excellence among youth, although it has also been criticized for potentially embarrassing students who struggle with the exercises. In summary, the Presidential Fitness Test is a historic physical fitness challenge for school-aged children, assessing multiple fitness domains to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle, with renewed focus in recent years on national fitness and youth health.