President Bush Launches Fitness Initiative

June 26, 2002

Some Federal agencies waived use fees this past weekend at national parks, forests and other areas as part of President George W. Bush's Healthier US Initiative, unveiled today. Saying physical activity is the key to better health, Bush promoted the use of public lands and water for recreation, and pledged support for maintaining the nation's rivers and trails.

"Better health is an individual responsibility, and it is an important national goal," Bush said, addressing reporters, staff members and physical fitness experts at the White House Fitness Expo today. "When it comes to your health, even little steps can make a big difference."

"This year, heart disease will cost our country at least $183 billion. If just 10 percent of adults began walking regularly, we could save billions in dollars," contented the President.

Bush signed two executive orders on June 20, aimed at encouraging physical fitness in all Americans. A new President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports was appointed, made up of professional athletes, trainers, U.S. Olympians, executives from the public and private sector, and physicians. "These fine Americans will serve as role models, and will join me in working with Americans to encourage exercise and healthy choices in life," Bush said.

"Regular hiking through a park can add years to a person's life," Bush said. "To honor that commitment, I want to thank [Interior Secretary Gale] Norton for waiving all entrance fees this weekend [June 21-23, 2002] to national parks and federal lands. If you're interested in doing something about your health, go to one of our parks - and take a hike." Lands managed by the Park Service, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) were all be free to public use this weekend.

"Americans seek out the beauty and variety of our Nation's public lands to enhance their active lifestyles. We welcome all visitors to enjoy our parks and realize the health and fitness benefits that result from engaging in outdoor recreation activities," said Major General Robert Griffin, director of civil works at the Corps, which operates more than 2,500 recreation areas.

"Physical fitness plays a role in the health and well-being of all Americans, and what better way to renew both the mind and body than by visiting America's special places and natural treasures," noted BLM Director Kathleen Clarke. Last year, more than 62 million people visited BLM lands.

"Now more than ever I think Americans are looking for outlets to release tension and relieve stress," said Park Service Director Fran Mainella. "National parks and local trails and greenways can provide a peaceful environment to invigorate the soul and restore the body."

At the president's request, the Departments of Interior, Agriculture, Health and Human Services and the Corps have all agreed to promote the use of public lands to enhance physical health. Volunteer events such as National Public Lands Day, National Fishing and Boating Week, National Trails Day, and Great Outdoors Week will be promoted as benefiting people through activity in natural and cultural landscapes.

The Bush initiative will also promote the Park Service's Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance (RTCA) program, which will work with community groups and local and state governments to conserve rivers, preserve open space, and develop trails and greenways as what the president called "pathways to health."

The RTCA program has worked with communities on urban promenades, trails along abandoned railroad rights of way, wildlife corridors, downtown riverfronts and regional water trails.