President Donald J. Trump proclaimed on May 5 that May 2026 will be recognized as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. The proclamation highlights the importance of sports and fitness in American life, emphasizing their role in building strength, discipline, and a competitive spirit.
The month is intended to encourage healthy lifestyles and expand access to athletic opportunities for all Americans. Trump said his administration is committed to strengthening the next generation by promoting sports participation. "We recognize the values and lessons that sports and fitness instill. Above all, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, expanding access to athletic opportunities, and ensuring every American has the chance to compete and succeed," Trump said.
Trump pointed out recent actions taken by his administration including an Executive Order revitalizing the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition as well as reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test. He noted that this year marks the council's 70th anniversary: "Working alongside world-class professional athletes, major league organizations, teams, schools and communities across our country, we are ushering in a new Golden Age of physical fitness — expanding access to wellness for every American... supporting youth sports, and celebrating a culture of strength, vitality, and excellence."
He also referenced executive actions aimed at maintaining fairness in athletics: "In my first days back in office I issued an Executive Order keeping men out of women’s athletics — protecting the equal opportunity of women and girls to compete and excel." Further steps were outlined regarding scholarships for student athletes along with efforts toward fair rules on eligibility.
The president highlighted upcoming international sporting events hosted by America over the next three years such as the Presidents Cup, FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games—and announced a new event called Patriot Games marking America's 250th anniversary: "This once-in-a-generation event will showcase the extraordinary talents that thrive across our country... proving to the world that the American competitive spirit is stronger... than ever before."
Concluding his proclamation Trump encouraged all Americans "to take steps to ensure they can live healthy and fulfilling lives through regular exercise," calling upon officials at all levels along with educators and athletes nationwide—especially youth—to get involved in sports during National Physical Fitness & Sports Month.
