Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced the launch of the statewide #RazorbackReady2026 fitness challenge, aimed at preparing students for the return of the Presidential Fitness Test in Arkansas schools.
The initiative, introduced alongside the Arkansas Department of Education, encourages students to adopt healthier lifestyles while building excitement for new physical education standards beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.
Governor Sanders said the program is designed to motivate students to “get excited, get creative, and most importantly, get active.” Education Secretary Jacob Oliva added that healthier students often see improvements in attendance, focus, and academic performance.
The Governor also signed an executive order requiring Arkansas public schools to incorporate elements of the Presidential Fitness Test into their curriculum.
How the Challenge Works
Schools across Arkansas can participate by posting a 60–90 second video of students completing fitness activities using the hashtag #RazorbackReady2026. The challenge runs from April 20 through May 22, with winners announced later this summer.
Entries will be judged on creativity, student participation, and social media engagement. The winning school will receive a visit from John Calipari, head basketball coach at the University of Arkansas.
Fitness Test Components
Students will complete several activities, including:
One-mile run
Sit-ups in one minute
Push-ups or pull-ups
Shuttle run
Sit-and-reach flexibility test
Students scoring in the top 85 percent nationally may qualify for the Presidential Physical Fitness Award, originally established under Lyndon B. Johnson.
The fitness test was reinstated following a 2025 executive order signed by Donald J. Trump, bringing renewed national focus on youth health and wellness.
State leaders say the initiative complements broader education reforms, including Arkansas LEARNS and the Bell-to-Bell, No Cell Act, helping students stay engaged both academically and physically.
