Timmons to Lead Roundtable on Military Fitness Standards

WASHINGTON-Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs Chairman William Timmons (R-S.C.) will lead a roundtable titled "Fit to Serve: Oversight of U.S. Military Fitness Standards." During the roundtable, members and participants will examine the culture and importance of Americans' fitness for military service and whether this should be a national security imperative. Members will also analyze the ways physical fitness has broader societal implications and examine the critical nature of merit-based fitness standards and how they reflect retention, morale, and long-term structure in the military.

"It is extremely concerning that more Americans are physically unfit for military service than ever before, with over 70 percent of young adults being ineligible to serve. Declining physical fitness standards and lack of morale have also harmed the military's retention rates, leading to potential gaps in U.S. national security and defense capabilities. The culture of fitness in the U.S. needs to be studied and changed to promote healthier lifestyles, greater mental resilience, and strong leadership both at home and abroad. I look forward to discussing with participants the ways in which Congress can help the military promote healthier lifestyles and understand how technological advancements can further this goal," said Subcommittee Chairman Timmons.

WHAT: Roundtable: "Fit to Serve: Oversight of U.S. Military Fitness Standards"

DATE: Wednesday, April 22, 2026

TIME: 2:00 P.M. ET

LOCATION: 2154 Rayburn House Office Building

PARTICIPANTS:

• Dr. Christopher Schorr, Director, Higher Education Reform Initiative, America First Policy Institute
• Major Jay Antonelli, USMC (retired), EdD, MS

WATCH: The roundtable will be livestreamed here.