The Great Thing About Trump’s New Fitness Push: It’s a Test—But Will It Be Equitable?

Following the news report from “NBC” I believe it’s important for others to bring awareness/voice to the needs of ALL children. It’s important we get this correct from the beginning. Build for the most challenged individual and you will see how others are able to join. That is if the agenda is truly around body health and not weeding out the vulnerable population. For now, I will believe we will build for all. 

In recent discussions surrounding youth fitness in America, a fresh spotlight has been cast on physical education and health standards—spurred in part by renewed political interest, including commentary from former President Donald Trump. Whether intentionally or not, the national conversation has reopened a vital question, What does true fitness look like for children of all abilities?

At face value, promoting fitness is a worthy cause. However, how we define fitness—and who gets to succeed under its definitions—has long been a point of contention. Many traditional programs rely on standardized exercises like pushups, sit-ups, and timed sprints. These measures may seem objective, but they don’t reflect the diverse abilities, strengths, or needs of all students. Some children thrive in these environments; others, especially those with disabilities or non-traditional body types, are left behind.

That’s why the best part of this moment might not be the revival of a fitness program itself, but the opportunity it presents: a test not of physical strength, but of educational vision and inclusivity. Schools and policymakers have a chance to ask critical questions, Are we promoting fitness or uniformity? Are we celebrating health or rewarding a narrow idea of performance?

A successful program must go beyond the track and gym mat. That means embracing activities like hiking, ping pong, swimming, dance, and wheelchair-accessible games. It means recognizing that “fitness” can include endurance, coordination, agility, creativity, and mental well-being. It also means acknowledging that some children—due to chronic illness, trauma, or physical limitations—may require customized pathways to participation.

The common thread? Equitable access. No matter the political momentum or public framing, any lasting and meaningful fitness initiative must prioritize this principle. Equity ensures that every child has a chance to participate, grow, and feel accomplished—not just the fastest or the fittest.

If this renewed national attention leads us to rethink how we measure success in youth fitness, it could be the start of something powerful—not just stronger bodies, but stronger, more inclusive communities.