Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley recently clarified his decision not to accept President Donald Trump’s invitation to join the reestablished Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition. This council, which Trump signed into effect via an executive order on July 31, aims to tackle “the widespread epidemic of declining health and physical fitness” through approaches rooted in American sports traditions. During the order’s signing, Trump was joined by several prominent athletes, including NFL figures like Lawrence Taylor and Harrison Butker, bringing attention to this health initiative.
Barkley’s name was mentioned as a council member alongside other notable athletes, sparking a need for clarification in a subsequent press conference. He disclosed that while the opportunity was appreciated, he was caught off guard, having previously discussed with his family the commitment involved in such a role. Barkley stressed his focus on his busy schedule and priorities, indicating a desire to prioritize family and personal commitments over joining the council. This statement highlighted his shock yet recognition of the initiative’s potential positive impact.
At the signing event, several high-profile athletes were present, including WWE’s Paul Levesque and golf legends like Annika Sorenstam. LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau is set to chair the council, voicing ambitions to reshape the health landscape for American youth by reviving the Presidential Fitness Test—a program initially birthed in 1956 under President Eisenhower. DeChambeau emphasized the importance of inspiring competition and promoting community development in their fitness goals.
The Presidential Fitness Test, first launched in the mid-20th century, was designed to encourage physical activity among youth through various athletic exercises. However, it faced discontinuation during President Obama’s administration, which replaced it with a new program focused on a broader set of fitness ideals. The return of this initiative under President Trump signals a shift towards reestablishing traditional measures of physical fitness in American culture, aiming to rekindle interest in sports and health.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy underlined the council’s mission to “re-instill the spirit of competition” and a commitment to better nutrition and fitness among youth. This reflects a growing recognition of the rising health issues affecting younger populations, emphasizing the need for structured fitness programs and guidelines. The collaborative efforts of the council aim to create actionable strategies that can significantly impact health trends in America.
Outside of the council, Barkley’s recent activities include a notable Super Bowl victory with the Eagles, where he led the league in rushing yards and overall scrimmage yards. Despite previous criticism for spending time with Trump on the golf course, Barkley maintained his stance on respect for the office, asserting that his personal interactions with different leaders should not merely be political fodder. His focus now remains on the upcoming NFL season as he prepares to defend their championship title, exemplifying his commitment to both sports and personal growth.
