The Obamas’ Fitness Routines
BY JASON JOHNSON
President Barack Obama was named one of the 20 Heroes of Health & Fitness by Men’s Health magazine in November 2008, along with other notables such as Tiger Woods and Lance Armstrong. Our President is included in a pretty impressive company of athletes.
His passion for basketball is no secret, and you’ve probably seen YouTube videos of his basketball prowess on the court. I must admit: He’s got some game.
Obama rocked a nice lil’ mini fro back in his days in Hawaii. Hitting free throws, a nice crossover like Iverson in his prime. And watching footage of his recent 5 on 5 pick up games, you can tell our President gets after it.
Banging around under the basket like Dwight Howard, his colleagues have said, “He plays like he leads politically….he’s quietly confident and quietly competitive.”
First lady Michelle Obama is also quite the fitness fanatic. At age 44, and the mother of two beautiful girls, she is committed and devoted to her own fitness routine. In previous public appearances on “The View” and “60 Minutes” Mrs. Obama was not afraid to show off her arms. Many women are self-conscious of wearing anything sleeveless, but not Michelle.
She was quoted as saying, “I find the time to exercise.” She works out 3 times a week for 90 minute sessions. The First Lady prefers cross-training sessions.
In addition to playing 5 on 5 basketball, President Obama told Men’s Health magazine he usually works out 6 times a week for 45 minutes. He likes to alternate days of cardio and weight training. Even during his 21-month long campaign, he found time to exercise.
Obama works out first thing in the morning. He says, “my workouts have to come before my day starts.” The President went on to say, “the main reason I do it is to just clear my head and relieve me of stress. My blood pressure is pretty low and I tend to be a healthy eater.”
In the article, some of Obama’s favorite snack food choices included: Planters Trail Mix, Met-Rx chocolate roasted-peanut protein bars and Black Forest Berry Honest Tea.
One thing is certain; the couple currently residing at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave set a great health & fitness example for all Americans. Everyone is busy, but who could be busier than the President and First Lady?
You have to find the time to exercise. You have to make it a priority. You make time for that which you value.
Stay healthy,
Jason M. Johnson, CPT
JMJ Fitness
www.jmjfitness.com
