HFA Welcomes Federal Plan to Address Childhood Physical Inactivity
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
The Health & Fitness Association has welcomed new federal actions aimed at reversing trends in childhood physical inactivity, outlined in the Administration’s “Make Our Children Healthy Again” report. The initiative, announced by President Donald J. Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., identifies inactivity as a driver of chronic disease and calls for renewed emphasis on physical activity in schools and communities.
The report outlines several strategies, including reinstating the Presidential Fitness Test in schools, expanding opportunities for afterschool and out-of-school programs, treating physical activity as a vital sign in federal health metrics, and launching new public awareness campaigns through the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.
“These are thoughtful efforts that mark a meaningful step forward in strengthening the health of America’s children,” said Mike Goscinski, vice president of government affairs for the Health & Fitness Association. “Recognizing physical activity as a vital sign is a game-changer for children’s health. It sends a clear signal that movement matters—not just in reversing obesity and chronic disease but also in building healthier, happier kids.”
HFA noted that many of the proposed measures build on work already underway in schools and communities, including standardized fitness metrics and programs designed to increase daily movement. The association said it is prepared to collaborate with the Administration and the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition to support implementation.
The strategy also prioritizes awareness campaigns, including a revitalized Presidential Fitness Award and coordinated messaging around the physical and mental health benefits of regular activity. These efforts are intended to complement local initiatives and provide children with more opportunities to be active each day.
