Students invited to join Ohio Lt. Governor Tressel for statewide fitness challenge

7/29/2025

Student fitness challenge aims to equip and encourage students to set goals and earn incentives

Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, in collaboration with Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin, invites schools to join a new, statewide fitness challenge for students in grades 4-8. This challenge aims to promote student wellness, increase energy levels, and foster a stronger sense of community.

The challenge, which will run from September through November, strives to help students form healthy habits in physical activity, sleep, and nutrition through individual goal setting. Students will be guided on how to create a workout and lifestyle routine they can build on throughout life, and they can earn one of three recognition levels – bronze, silver, or gold.

Every student participating will receive a certificate signed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Tressel. Extra incentives, recognition, and prizes will be awarded to students and schools demonstrating strong participation and outcomes.

This challenge is specifically designed for students to complete individually, outside of the classroom, and resources will be provided to support participating students. Flexibility is built in for schools that wish to play a more active role in the challenge during the school day.

To accept the challenge, school principals will designate a central point of contact to act as the school coordinator throughout the challenge. At the conclusion of the challenge, schools will be required to submit the names of students who participated in order to receive completion certificates.

Any public, private, or charter school student in Ohio will have the option to participate if their school opts in.

To enroll, the school principal must complete the registration form by Aug. 7. 

Watch the fitness challenge video for an overview of the initiative.