Many people online have been reminded of their childhood traumas with the news that Donald Trump intends to reintroduce the ‘brutal’ fitness test to US schools.
Since his return to the White House in January, the President has signed 176 executive orders, according to the Federal Register.
While the significance of these orders varies, Trump’s recent decision has left a certain generation reliving unpleasant school memories.
On Thursday, July 31, Trump signed an executive order to reintroduce the Presidential Fitness Test in public schools, alongside golfer Bryson DeChambeau, Kansas City Chiefs’ Harrison Butker, and former New York Giants player Lawrence Taylor.
The test, which dates back to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s administration in 1966, required students to complete tasks such as a one-mile run, sit-ups, push-ups, and pull-ups.
The Presidential Fitness Test was discontinued in 2012 by President Barack Obama and replaced with a program called FitnessGram.
Trump addressed the press on Thursday, stating: “This is an important step in our mission to make America healthy again.
“It’s something that’s very important, what we’re doing, very important. Dating back to the administration of President Dwight D Eisenhower, this council has championed the vigor and strength and vitality of the American people today. We continue that very proud tradition.”
He further mentioned: “It was a big deal. This was a wonderful tradition, and we’re bringing it back. It’s turned out to be very, very popular to do.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt shared with CNN: “President Trump wants every young American to have the opportunity to emphasize healthy, active lifestyles — creating a culture of strength and excellence for years to come.”
This executive order has revived unpleasant memories for some, with one Reddit user commenting: “We did this ‘beep test’ for varsity soccer and kids would throw up or nearly throw up every summer. It was brutal.”
Another user recalled: “I remember doing this test in elementary school. I can still hear the audio from this stupid test in my head. I remember I only got up to like 15 or so before I was done…I was an out of shape kid.”
A third person questioned Trump’s ability to pass the test, saying: “Let’s see him pass it.”
This announcement comes as the US prepares for major upcoming sports events, including the 2025 Ryder Cup, 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Olympics.