Abstract
This paper argues that physical fitness, historically central to classical education, is underemphasized in the modern revival of classical and civic education, allowing vitalist movements to exploit this gap. Despite this, there remain resources for democratic civic educators to emphasize physical excellence in civic education. Drawing on Xenophon’s Memorabilia, this paper examines Socrates’ dialogue with Epigenes, exploring how physical fitness is linked to both duties of citizenship and individual well-being, making it both a personal and a civic virtue. Socrates argues that fitness not only prepares citizens for potential martial demands but also enhances intellectual and personal excellence, countering the notion that it is merely a professional athlete’s concern. The paper then traces the historical role of physical education in American civic life, from the robust demands of colonial survival to formalized programs like Eisenhower’s President’s Council on Youth Fitness. However, post-World War II shifts toward sedentary lifestyles and egalitarian fitness policies, such as the Clinton and Obama administrations’ focus on inclusive participation over excellence, have coincided with declining national fitness levels. I then critique this “democratization” of fitness standards, suggesting it may contribute to, or at least fail to remedy, widespread physical decline, as evidenced by rising obesity rates and weakened military standards. I conclude by advocating for reintegrating physical education into civic education to foster democratic virtues, and urge a reevaluation of the intellectual and curricular role of physical excellence.