Mississippi Plans Statewide Reinstatement of Presidential Fitness Test in 2026

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has signed Executive Order 1589 to reinstate the Presidential Fitness Test for elementary, middle, and high school students across the state, beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year. This move follows President Donald Trump's national reinstatement of the test and aims to combat the rise in obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor nutrition among youth, which Reeves cites as leading to negative health outcomes and broader societal issues. The test will measure physical fitness through activities like a one-mile run, sit-ups, push-ups or pull-ups, and a sit-and-reach test. The order also tasks State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney and State Superintendent of Education Dr. Lance Evans with submitting reports proposing strategies and plans related to nutrition, exercise, and the fitness test by June 30, 2026. Reeves emphasizes the urgency of encouraging physical activity and healthy eating among students to foster healthier adults and address public health concerns in Mississippi. The initiative reflects a broader federal and state effort to address childhood obesity and inactivity.