PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Nearly 100 school-aged children from Peterson SFB participated in the Presidential Fitness Test July 24, as part of a pilot program rolling out across Department of War installations.
The PFT originated in the late 1950s when President Eisenhower initiated the voluntary program to improve the physical fitness of American youth. It ran through 2012 and was reinstated again last year.
“The kids have been practicing since the summer began,” said Kyla Dauber, 21st Force Support Squadron youth director. “We have had a fun run every month.”
Students compete in three categories: Core Strength, with the option of curl-ups or a plank; Cardio, with the option of a long distance run or 20-meter beep test; and Upper Body, with the option of right-angle push-ups or pull-ups. They are given an age dependent target for each category to pass the test.
“Running was my favorite part,” said Isaac Kram, son of U.S. Space Force Spc. 3 Samuel Kram, 16th Electromagnetic Warfare Squadron. “I go running at the playground a lot with my dad. I am going to keep practicing, so I can do it again next year and get faster.”
To ensure the benchmarks are both rigorous and realistic, officials established standards using a blend of historical performance records and modern athletic data.
“This program also coincides with the new PT standards for the Air Force and Space Force, so it has been an opportunity for the kids to relate to their parents,” said Dauber. “It has become a family affair.”
All who compete earn certificates of participation, while those who meet the respective benchmarks earn a Presidential or National level certificate.
By investing in the physical fitness of Guardians, Airmen, and their families, the Space Force reinforces mission readiness and community resilience, with the ultimate goal of having all DoW installations participate in the program starting in the 2026–2027 school year.