[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 17 (Monday, May 5, 2008)]
[Pages 621-622]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8249--National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2008

 April 29, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Health and fitness are personal responsibilities and important 
national goals for our citizens. During National Physical Fitness and 
Sports Month, we highlight the benefits of exercise and the value of 
participating in sports.
    It is important for all Americans to participate in activities that 
help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Outdoor activities such as walking, 
running, swimming, and biking are good for the mind, body, and soul. 
Regular physical activity and healthy eating habits can help reduce 
stress and lower the risk for many chronic health conditions such as 
heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
    My Administration is committed to encouraging all Americans to 
remain physically active. Through the President's Council on Physical 
Fitness and Sports, the National President's Challenge allows 
participants of all ages to set a fitness goal and keep track of their 
progress as they work to achieve it. To get more information, or to sign 
up to participate, people can visit presidentschallenge.org. By getting 
involved and exercising for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, Americans 
can improve their health and happiness and set a positive example for 
others.
    During National Physical Fitness and Sports month and throughout the 
year, I encourage all Americans to make physical fitness a priority in 
their lives.
    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 2008 as National 
Physical Fitness and Sports Month. I call upon my fellow citizens to 
recognize the importance of exercise and participate in athletic 
activities. I also encourage individuals, schools, and communities to 
celebrate this

[[Page 622]]

month with appropriate activities and programs.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth 
day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:26 a.m., April 26, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 1.