Special Poll
Amid concerns about his age, President Biden’s fitness regimen remains largely under wraps, sparking curiosity and debate. When Biden entered the White House in early 2021, there was much speculation about whether his beloved Peloton bike, a staple of his pandemic-era exercise routine, would accompany him due to security concerns. Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown, Biden and his wife, Jill, reportedly had friendly disputes over who would get to use the bike first each morning, indicating the importance of fitness in their daily lives.
Despite a February memo declaring Biden “fit for duty” and confirming his commitment to exercising at least five days a week, specifics about his current fitness activities are scarce. Last summer, glimpses of Biden cycling in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and participating in Pilates and spin classes during a family vacation in Lake Tahoe were among the few insights into how the President keeps active.
At 81, Biden’s physical capabilities are under intense scrutiny as he embarks on his second presidential campaign. Instances of him stumbling have fueled Republican claims that he may not be up to the demands of another term. This lack of transparency regarding his exercise habits has led to concerns among Democrats that not enough is being done to counteract narratives about Biden’s age and fitness.
Democratic strategists express frustration over the missed opportunity to showcase Biden’s active lifestyle more prominently, contrasting it with former President Trump’s well-documented preference for fast food and golf. They argue that emphasizing Biden’s physical activity could help dispel doubts about his stamina and appeal to voters.
The White House has remained tight-lipped about the details of Biden’s workout routine, even as Biden’s campaign highlights his recent tour of eight swing states in 18 days as evidence of his vigor. This contrasts with historical openness from past presidents about their fitness routines, from Obama’s detailed gym sessions to George W. Bush’s passion for running, which they used to convey their energy, discipline, and relatability.
Experts suggest that Biden could benefit from sharing more about his fitness regimen, especially in an era where social media platforms like TikTok offer new ways to connect with voters. Highlighting his commitment to staying in shape could not only address concerns about his age but also underscore a contrast with Trump’s lifestyle.
However, there are risks associated with overemphasizing physical fitness, especially for an older candidate. Missteps could provide ammunition for critics, reminiscent of past political gaffes. Yet, in a campaign landscape where personal health and vitality are increasingly scrutinized, finding a balance between transparency and strategic messaging about Biden’s fitness could be key to addressing voter concerns and focusing on the substantive issues at stake in the election.