The Presidential Physical Fitness Award was officially discontinued in 2013 and replaced by the more inclusive Presidential Youth Fitness Program (PYFP). This change shifted the national focus from competitive physical achievement to encouraging lifelong healthy habits and personal fitness improvement for all students.
Understanding what happened to the Presidential Physical Fitness Award is important for parents, educators, and students who want to promote healthy, active lifestyles in schools. The change in policy affects how physical fitness is measured and celebrated in the United States, and knowing the facts ensures your approach is up-to-date and evidence-based.
If you’re wondering what replaced the old program, how it works now, and why the change was made, this guide will answer all your questions with clear steps, sources, and tips for supporting youth fitness today.
For official updates, see the Presidential Youth Fitness Program FAQ or the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition.
Why Was the Presidential Physical Fitness Award Discontinued?
The Presidential Physical Fitness Award was ended in 2013 after more than 45 years in U.S. schools. This decision was based on research and feedback that highlighted several key problems:
- Competitive Pressure: The award focused on top performance benchmarks, which discouraged students who struggled with physical tasks.
- Lack of Inclusivity: Many children felt left out if they could not achieve the high standards, despite their efforts.
- Modern Health Guidelines: Experts and health organizations, like the CDC, encouraged shifting from competitive tests to holistic, health-related fitness assessments.
- Educational Priorities: Schools needed a program that emphasized long-term health over short-term competition.
Source: Fitness.gov – History of the President’s Challenge (2025)
What Replaced the Presidential Physical Fitness Award?
The Presidential Youth Fitness Program (PYFP) replaced the old award system in 2013 and is still the standard as of 2025. Here’s what changed:
- Focus on Personal Progress: PYFP encourages students to improve their own health and fitness, regardless of their starting point.
- Inclusive Assessments: The program uses the FitnessGram® assessment, which is widely adopted and recommended by SHAPE America and the CDC.
- Health-Related Standards: Instead of only rewarding top performers, the new approach celebrates all students who show improvement and meet age-appropriate fitness standards.
- Support for Teachers: The PYFP provides free resources, training, and recognition for teachers and schools to support healthy habits.
Key Features of the Presidential Youth Fitness Program
- Cardiorespiratory Endurance: Assessed with tools like the PACER test.
- Muscular Strength & Endurance: Push-ups, curl-ups, and other tests.
- Flexibility & Body Composition: Includes activities and measurements suitable for all students.
- Recognition: Students receive certificates for participation, improvement, and achievement based on personal progress.
Latest Update:
There are no announced plans to bring back the old competitive award as of July 2025. All current fitness awards are part of the inclusive PYFP model.
Comparing the Old and New Programs
| Feature | Presidential Physical Fitness Award | Presidential Youth Fitness Program (PYFP) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 1966 | 2013 |
| Assessment Focus | Competitive performance | Personal progress & health standards |
| Inclusivity | Limited (only top scorers awarded) | High (all progress recognized) |
| Major Tests | Sit-ups, pull-ups, shuttle run, etc. | FitnessGram® (PACER, curl-ups, etc.) |
| Official Website | Discontinued | PYFP.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Presidential Physical Fitness Award coming back?
No, as of 2025, there are no plans to bring back the old award. The federal focus remains on inclusive, health-based fitness programs.
Can schools still recognize physical fitness?
Yes! Schools can still celebrate students’ personal improvement and healthy habits using the PYFP, which is backed by the CDC and SHAPE America standards.
Where can I find official guidelines or sign up for the PYFP?
Visit the Presidential Youth Fitness Program official website for guides, resources, and current assessment tools.
How to Support Student Fitness in 2025
Here are some actionable tips for parents, teachers, and students:
- Encourage daily physical activity: The CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of activity per day for kids and teens (CDC, 2025).
- Promote inclusive activities: Focus on games and exercises where all kids can participate and improve.
- Use PYFP resources: Free lesson plans, assessments, and certificates are available for schools.
- Track personal progress: Help students set and reach individual fitness goals.
Conclusion & Next Steps
The Presidential Physical Fitness Award was discontinued in 2013 and replaced by the more inclusive and modern Presidential Youth Fitness Program (PYFP). The change reflects a broader understanding of health and wellness, aiming to build lifelong healthy habits for every student—not just the best athletes.
If you want your school or community to join the movement toward healthier, happier kids, visit the PYFP official website or the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition for the latest resources and policy updates.
Ready to help students thrive?
Download the PYFP Toolkit and start promoting healthy habits today!