President Donald Trump proclaimed May 2026 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.
The announcement celebrates the strength, discipline, and competitive spirit of Americans while recognizing the values sports and fitness provide. Trump reaffirmed his dedication to healthy lifestyles, broader access to athletics, and opportunities for all citizens to compete and succeed.
Sports and fitness form a core part of American identity, built through hard work and a drive for excellence that sharpens minds and builds character to tackle global challenges, Trump stated.
Last summer, Trump signed an executive order to revitalize the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition and reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test to help young Americans embrace an active lifestyle. The move coincided with the council’s 70th anniversary, The Dallas Express reported at the time.
Partnerships with professional athletes, major leagues, teams, schools, and communities aim to usher in a new era of fitness by expanding access to wellness, highlighting the benefits of exercise and nutrition, bolstering youth sports, and fostering strength and vitality.
The administration has also targeted sports integrity. Trump issued an executive order in his first days back in office to bar men from women’s athletics, safeguarding opportunities for women and girls. Additional actions direct colleges to maintain or expand scholarships and roster spots for student-athletes across sports. Trump seeks strict enforcement of eligibility, transfer, and compensation rules to preserve college athletics.
America will host the Presidents Cup, FIFA World Cup, and Olympic Games over the next three years, events meant to inspire fitness across generations and unite the nation. To honor the 250th anniversary of independence, the administration plans the Patriot Games this fall, pitting one young man and one young woman from each state and territory in competitions to spotlight emerging talent and American competitive drive.
A nation matches the strength of its people, Trump said, urging regular exercise and participation in sports to boost personal health and national vigor. He called on officials, educators, athletes, and citizens, especially youth, to engage in physical activity.
Trump signed the proclamation under constitutional authority on May 5, 2026, marking the nation’s 250th year of independence.