President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and the Reesetablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test

7/31/2025

Executive Orders

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Action Summary

Revocation & Amendment: Revokes Executive Order 13824 (2018) and amends Executive Order 13265 (2002), renaming the council and reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test.
Preamble & Purpose: Emphasizes the need to address America’s declining physical fitness and health—marked by rising obesity, chronic diseases, and inactivity—especially among youth, tying these issues to economic, military, and academic strength.
Historical Context: References past initiatives by Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, and previous administrations to improve youth fitness and sports participation.
Council Establishment: Creates the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, consisting of up to 30 appointed members with two-year terms, including designated Chair/Vice Chair and an Executive Director to manage operations.
Council Functions: Tasked with advising the President, strategizing the reestablishment and improvement of the Presidential Fitness Test, promoting youth sports, school-based physical education initiatives, and innovative fitness goals; also addresses national security concerns related to public health.
Policy Directives: Prioritize youth sports participation; promote benefits of regular activity and nutrition; engage multiple sectors to foster a culture of strength and vitality.
Administrative Provisions: Outlines roles of executive departments, funding and support from the Department of Health and Human Services, establishment of subcommittees, and modifications to the council’s seal.
General Legal Provisions: Ensures the order does not affect executive department authority or budgetary functions of the Office of Management and Budget; specifies termination of the Council in 2 years unless extended, and clarifies non-enforceability of rights against the U.S. government.

Risks & Considerations

The reestablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test and the revitalization of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition could lead to increased emphasis on physical education and sports in schools. This may require educational institutions, including Vanderbilt University, to adapt their curricula and resources to align with new national standards and expectations.
There is a potential risk that the focus on physical fitness and sports could divert attention and resources from other critical areas of education, such as academic performance and mental health support, which are equally important for student development.
The executive order’s emphasis on partnerships with professional athletes, sports organizations, and community groups may present opportunities for Vanderbilt to engage in collaborative initiatives. However, it also poses the risk of increased competition for partnerships and funding in the realm of sports and fitness.
The order’s focus on addressing childhood obesity and chronic diseases aligns with public health goals, but it may require additional resources and strategic planning from educational institutions to effectively implement related programs and initiatives.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s School of Medicine and Department of Health Policy may see increased demand for research and expertise in public health initiatives related to physical fitness, nutrition, and chronic disease prevention.
The Peabody College of Education and Human Development could play a significant role in developing and evaluating educational programs that promote physical fitness and nutrition in schools.
Vanderbilt Athletics may have opportunities to collaborate with national sports organizations and participate in initiatives that promote youth sports and physical activity.
The Office of Community Engagement could be instrumental in forming partnerships with local schools and community groups to support the implementation of fitness and nutrition programs.

Financial Impact

The executive order may lead to increased funding opportunities for research and programs related to physical fitness, sports, and nutrition. Vanderbilt University could benefit from grants and partnerships aimed at promoting these areas.
There may be financial implications related to the need for additional resources and infrastructure to support expanded physical education and sports programs, which could require strategic investment and planning.
Vanderbilt may need to consider the potential impact on tuition revenue and financial aid distribution if the focus on physical fitness and sports influences student demographics and enrollment patterns.

Relevance Score: 3 (The order presents moderate risks involving compliance and strategic alignment with national health and fitness initiatives.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s Department of Health and Human Services should explore opportunities to collaborate with the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. By engaging in initiatives that promote physical fitness and nutrition, the department can enhance its programs and contribute to national health goals.
The Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments related to the reestablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test. Understanding the criteria and implementation strategies will be crucial for aligning Vanderbilt’s health and fitness programs with federal standards.
Vanderbilt Athletics can leverage the emphasis on youth sports and active play to expand its outreach and community engagement programs. By promoting sports participation and physical activity, the university can strengthen its ties with local schools and communities.
The School of Medicine should consider research opportunities related to the health impacts of physical fitness and nutrition initiatives. By contributing to the body of knowledge in this area, the school can position itself as a leader in health research and policy.
Vanderbilt’s Public Relations Office should highlight the university’s involvement in national health initiatives and its commitment to promoting physical fitness and nutrition. This can enhance Vanderbilt’s reputation as a proactive and health-conscious institution.

Opportunities

The executive order presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Peabody College to develop educational programs focused on the benefits of physical fitness and nutrition. By integrating these topics into the curriculum, Peabody can contribute to the development of healthier and more active students.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the national focus on health and fitness by hosting events and workshops that promote physical activity and nutrition. These events can serve as platforms for community engagement and education.
The emphasis on partnerships with professional athletes and sports organizations offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Athletics Department to collaborate with high-profile figures and organizations. These partnerships can enhance the university’s visibility and influence in the sports and health sectors.
By engaging with the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, Vanderbilt can position itself as a key player in shaping national health policies and initiatives. This involvement can lead to increased funding and support for the university’s health-related programs.

Relevance Score: 3 (The order presents opportunities for some adjustments to Vanderbilt’s programs and partnerships in health and fitness.)

Average Relevance Score: 3.4

Timeline for Implementation

Council Termination: The Presidential Council established by this order is set to terminate 2 years from the date of issuance (i.e., by July 31, 2027), unless extended by the President.
Major Sporting Events: The order notes that over the next 3 years, America will host several major sporting competitions (Ryder Cup, President’s Cup, FIFA World Cup, and the Olympic Games), though these events are inspirational benchmarks rather than direct implementation deadlines.

Relevance Score: 1

Impacted Government Organizations

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): Tasked with administering the reestablished Presidential Fitness Test and providing funding, administrative, and technical support to the Council.
Department of Education (DOE): Responsible for publication costs and involved in initiatives that promote youth fitness and educational programs related to the order.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB): Its functions related to budgetary, administrative, and legislative proposals must remain unaffected, highlighting its oversight role in fiscal matters.
All Executive Departments and Agencies: The order directs every executive department and agency to furnish information and assistance to the Council, indicating a government-wide impact.

Relevance Score: 5 (The directive applies across the entire executive branch, impacting multiple departments and agencies.)

Responsible Officials

Secretary of Health and Human Services – Responsible for administering the reestablished Presidential Fitness Test, providing funding, and administrative support for the Council, and executing functions under the Federal Advisory Committee Act as outlined in the order.
Secretary of Education – Supports the administration of the Presidential Fitness Test as specified in the order, including bearing the publication costs.

Relevance Score: 5 (The directives impact Cabinet officials responsible for national health and education policies.)