[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 118, 108th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7782 of May 7, 2004


 
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2004


By the President of the United States of America


A Proclamation
Physical fitness is an integral part of a healthy life and a healthy
America. National Physical Fitness and Sports Month provides an oppor

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tunity for all Americans to learn more about the benefits of exercise
and sports and to make being physically active part of their everyday
lives.
Regular physical activity builds strength and aerobic fitness, provides
motivation, promotes relaxation, and facilitates sleep for people of all
ages and abilities. Regular exercise--in some cases, simply walking for
half an hour--can help reduce the risk of many serious health problems,
such as heart disease and diabetes. By participating in sports,
individuals also learn teamwork, discipline, and how to accept victory
and defeat with grace. These important lessons help build good character
and teach strong values.
My Administration has recommended a few simple steps to achieve better
health and fitness. Our HealthierUS Initiative promotes daily physical
activity, healthy diets, and preventative screenings. It also encourages
people to avoid tobacco and drugs, and to make responsible choices about
alcohol. Across our country, people are making physical activity part of
their daily lives by participating in the President's Challenge, a
fitness program that helps them track weekly fitness activities and
rewards them for reaching defined fitness goals.
As we observe National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, I urge adults
and children to participate in regular physical activity. I encourage
parents to make family time active, and I call on Americans to help
motivate their friends to have anactive lifestyle. By exercising
regularly and participating in sports, we can improve our health, set a
positive example for our children, and help build a stronger future for
our country.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2004 as National
Physical Fitness and Sports Month. I call upon the people of the United
States to recognize the importance of daily physical activity and sports
for all our citizens, and to make fitness a part of daily life. I also
call on all Americans to celebrate this month with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May,
in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

PROCLAMATION 7783--MAY 7, 2004