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National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Get ready to sweat and play as we celebrate National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! Join in on the fun with challenges, events, and tips for a healthy lifestyle.

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYHealth

SUBCATEGORYFitness

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to break a sweat and embrace a healthy lifestyle because May 1 marks the start of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! This month-long celebration encourages individuals of all ages to get active and participate in various sports and physical activities. The idea for this holiday was first introduced by President George W. Bush in 2004, with the goal of promoting the benefits of regular exercise for our overall well-being. From organized team sports to solo workouts, there are endless ways to stay fit and have fun during this month. So let's lace up our sneakers and get moving!

TIMELINE

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month Timeline

President's Council on Youth Fitness

President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the President’s Council on Youth Fitness pointing toward the need for a nationwide fitness initiative.

National Physical Fitness and Sports Week

President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first week of May to be National Physical Fitness and Sports Week, encouraging a week of fitness promotion.

Expanded to a Full Month

National Physical Fitness and Sports Week was expanded to encompass the entire month of May under Bill Clinton's administration.

President's Challenge Program

The President's Council launched the President's Challenge Program to help motivate participants to improve regardless of activity and fitness level.

Let's Move Campaign

First Lady Michelle Obama started the Let's Move campaign, an initiative dedicated to combating childhood obesity and promoting health through physical fitness.

Pandemic Influences Fitness

The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the importance of remaining physically active for physical and mental health while undergoing social distancing measures.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Try a new outdoor activity

Challenge yourself to try a new outdoor activity each week during National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. This could be anything from hiking, kayaking, or even rock climbing.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a local sports league

Joining a local sports league is a great way to stay active and meet new people. Choose a sport you enjoy or try something completely new.

HOST

Host a fitness challenge with friends

Gather some friends and create your own fitness challenge for the month. Set goals and track progress together to stay motivated and have fun.

ATTEND

Attend a fitness event or workshop

Check your local community center or gym for fitness events and workshops happening during National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. This is a great way to learn new exercises and techniques.

CREATE

Create a workout playlist

Get pumped for your workouts by creating a motivating playlist. Include your favorite songs and try to switch it up each week to keep things interesting.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

It's a great opportunity to try new things

This month is the perfect chance to step out of your comfort zone and try new physical activities. You never know - you might discover a passion for a new sport or form of fitness that you never thought you'd enjoy!

It promotes a healthier lifestyle

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month encourages people to get active and live a more active lifestyle. By participating in physical activities, we not only improve our physical health, but also boost our mental well-being and overall quality of life.

It can be fun for all ages

Whether you're a child, teenager, or adult - National Physical Fitness and Sports Month has something to offer everyone. From team sports to solo workouts, there are countless activities that can help you stay in shape while having fun at the same time!

Related holidays

National Physical Education and Sport Week

Get active and show off your athletic skills during National Physical Education and Sport Week - the perfect time to embrace a healthy lifestyle!

National Fitness Day

Get moving on National Fitness Day! Join the challenge and set your fitness goals to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

Move More Month

Get ready to move and groove all month long with Move More Month! Join us in taking small steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Physical Wellness Month

Put your health first and join in on Physical Wellness Month - the perfect time to focus on self-care, fitness goals, and overall well-being.

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