U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday his exercise routine lasts at most a minute a day, as he signed an order to bring back a presidential fitness award for children.
Trump Signs Proclamation for Fitness Award
Surrounded by schoolchildren in the Oval Office, Trump signed a proclamation to revive the Presidential Fitness Test Award, a program that encourages physical activity among students. Golfers Gary Player and Bryson DeChambeau joined him for the ceremony.
"I work out so much, like, about one minute a day, max. If I'm lucky," Trump said before signing the proclamation. He also joked about his lack of exercise with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recounted his father's 50-mile hike. RFK Jr. noted that Trump, an avid golfer, "walks nine miles a day on a golf course every weekend." Trump added with a mock-dramatic aside, "When I'm not using the cart."
Health Speculation and Boasts
Speculation has swirled about Trump's health. At 79, he is the oldest president ever inaugurated when he returned to power last year and turns 80 next month. Trump often boasts about his physical prowess compared to his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden, who dropped out of the 2024 election due to age concerns. However, observers have noted bruising on his hands, swelling in his legs, and moments of dozing off in public. The White House attributes the leg swelling to a vein issue and the bruising to his aspirin consumption.
During the signing, Trump asked one student if he was a "strong person," and the boy replied "yes, sir." Trump then joked, "You think you could take me in a fight? I think you could." He also cycled through topics including graphic descriptions of protest deaths in Iran.
Presidential Fitness Test History
The Presidential Fitness Test Award was originally established in the 1960s to promote youth fitness. It was discontinued under the Obama administration but has now been revived by Trump. The program includes exercises like sit-ups, push-ups, and a mile run. Schools can participate voluntarily, and students who meet certain standards receive certificates and patches.
Critics argue that the test can be discouraging for less athletic children, but supporters say it encourages healthy habits. Trump's order aims to reinstate the award as part of his administration's focus on health and education.
