Governors who invest in their own well-being set a powerful example for their constituents, showing that a commitment to health can fuel the energy and clarity needed to lead effectively. Their dedication to physical and mental fitness can inspire others to embrace healthier lifestyles, fostering a broader culture of wellness across their communities. When a governor champions fitness, it resonates widely, motivating others to follow suit and catalyzing positive health changes in society.

In politics, it’s easy to focus on policies and rhetoric, but what about the physical fitness of our leaders? Imagine a governor who could outrun or outlift the average citizen! A healthy body often complements a healthy mind, making a governor’s fitness an often-overlooked aspect of their ability to lead. Given their influence over public health policy, governors have a unique role in shaping the health culture of their states—and it’s inspiring to see those who lead by example.

This year, we honor U.S. governors who champion health and fitness, both in their personal lives and through the policies they advocate. Our list, meticulously researched under the guidance of HFR founder Samir Becic, highlights the top 10 fittest governors in the country. This selection process involved extensive research, data analysis, and industry insight to identify the governors who exemplify what it means to be fit leaders.

“Governors are like mini-presidents, often wielding more political and financial power than many heads of state around the world,” says Samir Becic. “I urge you to use this powerful position to inspire Americans to lead the world in health and fitness, just as they do in so many other areas.”

We are at the forefront of fitness in politics, and our previous lists of the fittest politicians have generated buzz in some of the nation’s leading media outlets. Our research and insights have been featured in major outlets like The New York Times, LA Times, Houston Chronicle, Refinery29, The Washington Post, and many others, reaching diverse audiences nationwide. Politico dubbed our list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators 2016 their “List du Jour,” and they recently also praised our Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 list. 

Here are the Fittest U.S. Governors 2024, in alphabetical order:

Greg Abbott (TX)

Greg Abbott is an American politician that represents Texas as the governor. He has been serving this role since January 2015. His conservative values are reflected through issues such as gun rights, education, women’s rights, abortion, and immigration.

Greg Abbott has been a crucial part in fitness for not only his community, but also his own personal journey. When he was rendered partially paralyzed in 1984 due to an accident, he had to relearn how to take care of himself. He has spent time advocating for health throughout his career and puts an important emphasis on the concept that all challenges can be overcome.

Why is Greg Abbott one of the fittest governors?

• He is into football culture and often goes to support local colleges.
• Active in his community.
• Has a large appreciation for baseball.
• Has been involved in recognizing “National Champion Schools” which advocate for physical education and activity of students.
• Made HFR’s top 10 fittest governors of 2016, 2017, and 2020.
• Enjoys hunting.
• He was a member of his high school track team in Duncanville.

Doug Burgum (ND)

Doug Burgum is a fitness enthusiast who is often seen running and participating in outdoor activities. He is the governor of North Dakota and he has a heavy importance on the health outcomes of communities. He often preaches about combining fitness, mental health and well-being to complete the perfect balance. His platform has focused a lot of their energy onto economic development, workforce issues, and technology initiatives. He represents the Republican party.

Why is Doug Burgum one of the fittest governors?

• North Dakota was chosen for the National Foundation Of Governors Fitness Councils (NFGFC) for the Don’t Quit campaign, which is shared by Fitness icon Jake “Body by Jake” Steinfeld that helps the health and well-being of North Dakota’s children by getting them interested in fitness and good nutrition.
• He rides horses.
• He enjoys hunting.
• Has personal experiences that help motivate him to stay healthy. 
• He enjoys playing pick up basketball games. He even got hurt playing over a year ago, but reminded everyone injuries happen but we need to keep showing up.

Spencer Cox (UT)

Spencer Cox represents the Republican party in Utah as the governor He has been in this position since 2021, and before his time in this governor role, he has practiced law and public service. Representing a very right wing state, it is understandable that his main platforms revolve around fiscal conservativism, economic development, reformation of education, and more, however he is known to be a very moderate Republican.

Spencer Cox is known for being not just an advocate of physical fitness, but also mental well-being. Cox has been a dominant figure in the governor field to represent individuals who are fitness conscious.

Why is Spencer Cox one of the fittest governors?

• Enjoys engaging in activities such as running, cycling, and skiing.
• His social media often includes posts that encourage Utahns to be healthy and get outside.
• Advocated for policies to promote access to outdoor recreation, including increasing investment in state parks and public lands.
• Enjoys horseback riding.
• Helps his community with labor tasks, such as structuring new railroads.

Ron DeSantis (FL)

Ron DeSantis is the Republican governor of Florida. In his community, he typically takes a very conservative standpoint on key aspects, including education, public health, economy, gun rights, and social issues. Ron DeSantis has always been quite a large advocate for prioritizing fitness as he has shown a commitment to personal well-being and discipline that is very similar to his leadership approach.

Why is Ron DeSantis one of the fittest governors?

• Has a baseball background.
• He was captain of his college baseball team at Yale and when he was selected his coach in 2001 stated “being voted by your peers says a lot of what they think of you.” This emphasized his early leadership skill and foothold in fitness.
• Often uses his experiences in athletics in his speeches to connect and convey messages.
• Military background: Iraq veteran. He was a Navy lawyer who advised a SEAL commander.
• Engages in running and working out.
• DeSantis’ Dunedin Little League team made it to the Little League World Series in 1991.

Mike Dunleavy (AK)

Mike Dunleavy is a representative of the Republican party and is currently the governor of Alaska. Through his journey in politics, he has prioritized fiscal responsibility, which surrounds things like resource development, therefore, there is a huge emphasis to prioritize oil and gas initiatives.

A big part of Alaskan culture is being active outside in outdoor activities. Fishing is a much bigger activity in Alaska. Then it probably isn’t a lot of other places in the United States. 

Why is Mike Dunleavy one of the fittest governors?

• He partakes in snowmachining and camping.
• Joined the National Foundation for Governor’s Fitness Council “Don’t Quit” campaign.
• Has been particularly involved in healthcare bills.
• Enjoys outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking. 

Maura Healey (MA)

Maura Healey is a member of the Democratic Party and she is currently governor of Massachusetts. She has taken a large stance on LGBTQ rights and equality within the state, as she is the first openly gay individual to hold office in the state.

She has received national recognition for her ideas and executions on things, such as consumer protection, environmental

issues and civil rights.

She has a love for basketball and it is showcased all throughout her Instagram. It is always exciting to see people of power have their niche interests as well!

Why is Maura Healey one of the fittest governors?

• Places emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities.
• Understands and promotes mental health advocation.
• She is interested in cooking healthy foods.
• Walks for pride.
• Enjoys playing basketball and supports University of Massachusetts.
• Promotes health and fitness initiatives.

Brian Kemp (GA)

Brian Kemp is the governor of Georgia and his beliefs align him with the Republican party, pushing him to emphasize things such as job creation, and public safety.

He has promoted an importance of fitness and healthcare throughout his career. A big goal of his is to create new opportunities for Georgia citizens to make positive changes and choices in their lifestyles.

Why is Brian Kemp one of the fittest governors?

• Enjoy outdoor activities, such as hunting and fishing.
• Involved in his community.
• Enjoys football and got to be a part of the Georgia Tech and Georgia State football game coin toss.
• Helps out on occasion with labor jobs.
• Regularly participates in running and fitness events.
• Has fought to improve healthcare access and affordability.

Tina Kotek (OR)

Tina Kotek is a member of the Democratic Party and she represents Oregon as the governor. Before she was governor, she served as a speaker of the house of representatives and through her career she has addressed the importance of changing the narrative around climate change and public safety. When it comes to physical health, she has often been very outspoken about maintaining overall well-being, and being understanding of the demands of life.

Why is Tina Kotek one of the fittest governors?

• She has placed an emphasis on mental health by supporting her fellow citizens of LGBTQ stances.
• Placed an importance of the military.
• Marches for pride events.
• Enjoys the outdoors.
• Partners with clean up teams such as Sullivan Gulch to accomplish better environments.

Gavin Newsom (CA)

Gavin Newsom is the governor of California and he represents the Democratic Party. With this, he is not only a representative of good fitness and health, but he is also an advocate for the community to do the same. He has promoted physical fitness and mental well-being, which has helped construct a healthier and more resilient California.

Why is Gavin Newsom one of the fittest governors?

• He is listed amongst multiple sources praising his fitness, as he has made The 25 Fittest Men in Politics, Fittest American Politicians, Top 100 Fittest Politicians, and more. 
• Promotes healthy habits being taught to children early for learned behaviors.
• He regularly enjoys running.
• He partakes in cycling.
• Goal to help better community outcomes in health related realms.
• Gets involved in sports and voting interactions.
• Newsom was a shooting guard in basketball and an outfielder in baseball in his high school years.
• He was a left-handed pitcher for Santa Clara, and an injury took him out of the sport.

Kristi Noem (SD)

Kristi Noem is a representative of the Republican party in South Dakota. Her priorities as a governor have represented things such as education reform, healthcare, and economic growth. Through her platform, she has often shared her own fitness regimens, highlighting a promotion of physical health.

Why is Kristi Noem one of the fittest governors?

• She enjoys outdoor living and frequently hunts. 
• Backs freedom works which emphasizes the laborious importance of the working class.
• Takes part in the labor of her community by building a relationship with the national guard.
• Participated in the Buffalo Round Up! Making her a skilled horseback rider.
• Made the Top Fittest Governors in 2020, Top 10% Fittest Congress Members, and Top 100 Fittest Politicians.
• Noem participated in basketball, track, volleyball and cheerleading before her political career.

Jared Polis (CO)

Jared Polis is the governor of Colorado and he has been in office since January of 2019. He represents the Democratic party and focuses a lot on issues that reflect topics such as LGBTQ rights, energy sources, education, and healthcare.

Jared is known for his very active lifestyle in his political career. He emphasizes the importance of fitness, health, and well-being. He also has a strong standpoint on promoting messages of maintaining and uplifting good mental health.

Why is Jared Polis one of the fittest governors?

• Strives for community growth and involvement in fitness.
• Pushed for Colorado to reach new heights of accomplishing stats of a fittest month.
• Pushed for gyms and swimming pools to reopen after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Enjoys walking his dog.
• Likes to fish with his family.
• Stays active by attending and supporting the Denver Broncos.
• Has excitement around attending and supporting PAC-12 football.

Tim Walz (MN)

Tim Walz is a name that has been so incredibly prominent in politics as of lately. He recently just ran for Vice President alongside Kamala Harris. As he returns to Minnesota, he regains his role as governor where he will continue to represent the Democratic Party. Tim Walz has made a huge political career by emphasizing huge focuses on service of the military veterans and huge commitments to health reform and educational growth.

Walz has a military background, as he has served in the US Army National Guard for over 24 years and was even deployed to Bosnia and Iraq. Aside from his political career, Walz made a name for himself as a high school teacher and a football coach in Mankato Minnesota.

Why is Tim Walz one of the fittest governors?

• Did a tiktok with Kate Mackz running through central park. She has made a platform interviewing people on runs.
• Joined the national guard.
• Believes running is the “best stress reliever you can find.”
• High school and football coach.
• Enjoys hunting.
• Provided free school meals to all students in Minnesota.
• Ran the Rochester Marathon.

In our sixth edition of the Top 10 Fittest Senators, we celebrate lawmakers who not only maintain exceptional fitness levels but also serve as positive role models through their commitment to health and supportive legislative efforts. To curate this list, we researched all 100 current senators, narrowing the pool through extensive research and interviews, combined with the expertise of HFR founder Samir Becic, a global leader in fitness with over 20 years of experience.

“Senators, I encourage you to inspire others—not only by prioritizing your own health and fitness but by actively promoting a healthier lifestyle for all Americans. Many of you already advocate for wellness, yet with rising obesity rates, it’s clear that we must do more to make our nation—especially our children—healthier and fitter. These senators deserve recognition as wellness ambassadors, setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience” says Samir Becic.

We are at the forefront of fitness in politics, and our previous lists of the fittest politicians have generated buzz in some of the nation’s leading media outlets. From the New York Times, to the LA Times, to the Houston Chronicle, Refinery29, Washington Post, and so on… Politico dubbed our list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators 2016 their “List du Jour”, they also mentioned our Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 list. We have also conducted exclusive interviews with Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Sen. John Thune (R-SD) on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind!

Here are the fittest senators 2024, in alphabetical order:

John Barrasso (R-WY)

John Barrasso has been representing Wyoming in the U.S. Senate since 2007. A member of the Republican Party, he currently serves as the chairman of the Senate Republican Conference. Barrasso’s extensive background in both politics and medicine uniquely positions him as a significant figure in healthcare discussions. Before his political career, he was a practicing orthopedic surgeon, which explains his substantial influence in healthcare policy.

In the Senate, Barrasso has been a vocal advocate for healthcare reform, leveraging his medical background to inform his policy positions. His dual expertise in medicine and politics allows him to address complex healthcare issues with a nuanced perspective, making him a respected voice in the Senate.

• Actively involved in the community, engaging with first responders, firefighters, and teachers.
• Enjoys playing and watching football.
• Participated in the Wyoming State Fair parade.
• Advocates for improving public healthcare needs.
• Produced television and radio reports, as well as newspaper articles on health and fitness for over 20 years.
• Served as the Medical Director of Wyoming Health Affairs, focusing on access to preventative medicine across the state.
• Mental Health: “As a doctor, I know firsthand how important it is to recruit and maintain quality mental health professionals. Our bill addresses these issues by giving Medicare patients greater access to mental health services closer to home.”

Cory Booker (D-NJ)

Cory Booker is a politician and attorney currently serving as a U.S. Senator from New Jersey. Representing the Democratic Party, he has been a Senate member since 2013. Booker’s platform is focused on urban development and social justice, making a significant impact on his community.

Booker is passionate about fitness and staying active. He often discusses how exercise helps manage the stresses of public life, emphasizing its importance for mental health claiming that it “helps manage the stresses of public life”. Additionally, his community knows him for his interest in cooking, showcasing his well-rounded approach to a healthy lifestyle.

Booker is known for his motivational speeches, often sharing stories of waking up as early as 4:45 AM to get outside and embrace the day with a hunger for change. He preaches that giving up is the only way to fail and strongly advocates for individuals to believe in themselves and fight for their beliefs3.

• Regularly posts his fitness workouts and vlogs on his Instagram account.
• Played football at Stanford University, where he was a standout athlete.
• Emphasizes that the only obstacle to achieving fitness and health goals is one’s own doubts.
• Actively involved in the community, often participating in local events and initiatives.
• Gave up added sugar and encourages others to join him in this challenge to improve health.
• Advocates for reinventing our food systems to address food insecurity and rising rates of lifestyle diseases.
• Featured in many articles on the Health Fitness Revolution (HFR) page, including the Fittest Senators in America 2020, and has earned himself a fitness profile.
• Promotes mental health by highlighting the importance of exercise in managing stress and maintaining overall well-being.
• Supports initiatives to improve nutrition and end hunger, working on policies to make healthy food more accessible.
• Mental Health: Fights for college athletes mental health. “It is crucial that our college athletes have the mental health resources and care they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives on and off the field. This legislation will provide more access to mental health resources to provide the necessary support our college athletes need for their health and well-being.”

Bill Cassidy (R-LA)

Bill Cassidy, a Republican U.S. Senator since 2015, brings a strong background in medicine to his role. Before entering politics, he worked as a physician and gastroenterologist, a career path that deeply informs his legislative priorities. Given his healthcare origins, it’s no surprise that his platform emphasizes issues like healthcare access, mental health, and substance abuse treatment. This medical expertise influences his approach to creating policies that promote public health and well-being.

• Actively promotes outdoor exercise on his social media platforms.
• Treated uninsured patients as a doctor in Louisiana’s charity hospital system, demonstrating his commitment to accessible healthcare.
• Enjoys playing and watching baseball.
• Advocates for natural farming and is actively working on the next farm bill in Washington, D.C.
• Engages in hands-on outdoor work within his community.
• On mental health: Empathetic towards mental health struggles in the community. “Every single one of us has a family history. A loved one, a friend, someone you know, that has serious mental illness.”
• Co-authored the Mental Health Reform Act, which aims to improve mental health services and expand access to care.
• Led bipartisan efforts to pass the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, addressing mental health and burnout among healthcare workers.
• Mental Health: Empathetic of mental struggles in the community. “Every single one of us has a family history. A loved one, a friend, someone you know, that has serious mental illness.”

Joni Ernst (R-IA)

Joni Ernst, a Republican Senator first elected in 2014, represents Iowa and made history as the first female combat veteran in the U.S. Senate. Her military background strongly shapes her values and advocacy, especially in areas like agriculture, national security, and veterans’ affairs. Known for her determination and commitment to public service, Ernst continually works to strengthen Iowa’s communities.

Fitness is a significant part of Ernst’s life, something she openly embraces. With her military experience, she understands the critical link between physical fitness, mental resilience, and overall well-being. Ernst actively supports initiatives related to nutrition and fitness, aiming to improve public health and inspire others toward a healthy lifestyle.

• Ernst starts her day with a morning workout to stay energized and focused.
• She regularly participates in spin classes to maintain her fitness.
• Is an avid baseball fan and often participates in community baseball events.
• Highlights physical fitness awareness month: She promotes physical fitness awareness and encourages others to stay active.
• After graduating from Iowa State University, she joined the United States Army reserves and served in the National Guard for 20 years– Ernst’s military service has instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and commitment to health and fitness.
• Likes to go to the shooting range.
• Ernst introduced the Prioritizing Veterans’ Access to Mental Health Care Act to improve mental health services for veterans.
• She has worked on legislation to improve access to telehealth services, especially for rural communities.
• Promotes healthy eating and nutrition: Ernst supports policies that address food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits.
• Mental Health: Teamed up for the mental health of the agricultural communities. “Iowa farmers are the backbone of our agriculture economy, but first and foremost they’re part of a family. We cannot overlook the mental health struggles our men and women in farming face.”

Martin Heinrich (D-NM)

Martin Heinrich, a Democratic U.S. Senator from New Mexico, was recently re-elected due to his steadfast commitment to issues like environmental protection, national security, energy policy, and economic development. These priorities have resonated with his constituents and continue to define his legislative focus.

A strong advocate for healthcare access and affordability, Heinrich champions women’s reproductive rights and freedoms. He is also dedicated to reducing prescription drug costs and expanding healthcare access for all, aiming to create a more equitable healthcare system for New Mexicans and beyond.

• Martin Heinrich’s platform emphasizes not only physical health improvements but also mental health. He has been a strong proponent of mental health care, supporting initiatives like the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
• Actively involved in his community, Heinrich often participates in outdoor labor to make a difference. He has worked on projects to protect public lands and promote conservation.
• Heinrich has participated in marathons, showcasing his commitment to physical fitness.
• Big into hunting and fishing, Heinrich enjoys these activities as part of his lifestyle.
• He informs those in his state about the safe mushrooms to pick and eat, promoting safe foraging practices.
• Heinrich enjoys hiking and biking, often engaging in these activities with his family.
• Featured on our “Fittest Senators in America 2020” list , Heinrich was interviewed by us in 2018 about his fitness routine and healthy lifestyle.
• Mental Health: Focuses on health to all. “These investments will help ensure that more mothers and their newborns can access the health care they need closer to home, and more folks can access the mental health care and substance use treatment when and where they need it.”

Mark Kelly (D-AZ)

Mark Kelly has represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate as a Democrat since winning a special election in 2020. In office, he advocates for a range of issues, including healthcare rights, economic development, and advancing aerospace innovation.

Kelly’s background is deeply rooted in public service. As a former Navy pilot and astronaut, he has dedicated much of his life to serving the country. He co-founded the nonprofit organization Gabby Giffords’ Americans for Responsible Solutions, which promotes gun safety reforms, following the tragic shooting of his wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. This experience intensified his commitment to creating positive change, inspiring his work to build safer, healthier communities across Arizona and the nation.

• Has been on multiple space missions, including STS-108, STS-121, STS-124, and STS-134.
• He is a Navy combat veteran, having flown 39 combat missions during Operation Desert Storm.
• Supports local businesses that promote healthy food.
• Has a background in welding.
• Enjoys baseball and supports the Texas Rangers.
• Referenced in the article “Samir Becic Advocates for Fitness on the National Political Stage at Texas Tribune Fest 2023” on the Health Fitness Revolution page.
• Advocates for mental health awareness and has supported various initiatives to improve mental health services for veterans.
• Promotes physical fitness and has participated in numerous public fitness events.
• Emphasizes the importance of nutrition and healthy eating habits in his public statements and policies.
• Mental Health: “As Arizonans grapple with the social and economic effects of this pandemic, access to mental health care and community resources is more critical than ever. I’m proud to have helped secure this funding, which will go a long way in serving Arizonans who are struggling.”

Markwayne Mullin (R-OK)

Markwayne Mullin, a Republican senator representing Oklahoma since January 2023, brings a unique blend of business and athletic experience to his role. As the owner of Mullin Plumbing, his family business, Mullin champions policies that advocate for smaller government, lower taxes, and pro-business initiatives, shaped by his firsthand experience as an entrepreneur.

Beyond politics, Mullin’s background as a former professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, with a record of 5-0, underscores his commitment to strength and discipline both in and out of office. His athletic achievements include his induction into the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016, and he actively coaches his children and community members in wrestling.

Mullin is also passionate about promoting physical fitness and mental health. He has led early morning workouts for members of Congress and outdoor sessions for his community, encouraging physical activity among his constituents.

• He was inducted into the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016.
• Coaches his children and others in wrestling.
• Enjoys horseback riding.
• Has lead members of the House of Representatives in early morning workouts.
• Has lead outdoor workouts with community members. Encouraging those he represents on the senate to get active.
• Has been featured on our lists of the Top 20 Politicians of 2020, Fittest Representatives of 2020, and more.
• Supports local sports such as women’s college volleyball.
• Inspires his children, with his son following in his footsteps and attending OU for wrestling.
• Co-sponsored the Increasing Mental Health Options Act of 2023 to improve access to mental health services for older Americans.
• Supports local businesses that promote healthy food options.
• Mullin often engages in horseback riding as part of his active lifestyle.
• Mental Health: On expansion for behavioral health Mullin said “I firmly believe addressing mental health is just as important as any physical ailment, and its necessary patients’ records are treated accordingly. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that will improve the quality of care for patients seeking behavioral health care and substance use treatment.”

Chris Murphy (D-CT)

Chris Murphy, a Democratic U.S. Senator from Connecticut, is known for his strong advocacy in areas like healthcare, foreign policy, and gun control. In response to the tragic rise in mass shootings, Murphy has become a leading voice for responsible gun reform, working to implement policies that enhance public safety.

Murphy is deeply committed to both physical and mental health. He frequently emphasizes the importance of mental health care, pushing for policies that prioritize comprehensive mental health services. Personally, Murphy leads an active lifestyle and often shares his fitness routines, reflecting his belief that physical well-being is a key component of a balanced life. He sees healthcare reform as essential to ensuring public health, advocating for policies that support accessible, high-quality care for all.

• Participated in athletic events, such as the Connecticut Challenge.
• Often rides his bike and enjoys running.
• Gets outside and stays active with his children.
• Actively participates in his community.
• Co-authored the bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act, which was signed into law in 2016 and reauthorized in 2022.
• Fights against loneliness: Leads efforts to address loneliness as a public health issue, introducing legislation to promote social connection.
• Supports the Affordable Care Act and introduced the Choose Medicare Act to allow every American to buy into Medicare.
• Works to combat the opioid epidemic: Secured millions in funding for treatment programs and prevention in Connecticut.
• Promotes healthy eating and nutrition: Supports policies that address food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits.
• Mental Health: Made it his mission to make change. “I have made it my mission in the Senate to improve our nation’s broken mental health system. Too many children and adults in our country do not get the timely, high-quality care they need to live healthy and productive lives.”

Jon Ossoff

Jon Ossoff, a U.S. Senator from Georgia, has represented the Democratic Party since 2020. Prior to his political career, he worked as a filmmaker and investigative journalist, experiences that sharpened his commitment to transparency and accountability. As a senator, Ossoff focuses on issues such as healthcare, voting rights, climate change, and ensuring government accountability. One of his key objectives in office is to expand and improve healthcare access for all.

Ossoff’s love for ultimate frisbee, a sport he grew up playing, remains a source of inspiration for him. He often draws parallels between the teamwork and resilience required in frisbee and the persistence needed in politics, reinforcing his belief in never giving up on important goals.

• Played ultimate frisbee for the men’s U.S. national team.
• Offered a bill that provides a tax credit to grocery stores that open locations in underserved areas to make fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy more available and accessible.
• Introduced the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Access for Children and Seniors Act of 2024.
• Advocates for mental health: Delivered $7.2 million in federal resources to Community Health Centers across Georgia to strengthen access to mental health and substance abuse treatment.
• Supports mental health counseling for students: Delivered federal resources to hire more counselors in Georgia schools.
• Promotes physical fitness: Encourages community members to stay active through outdoor workouts and events.
• Supports local sports, including women’s college volleyball.
• Delivered new resources to help renovate the Albany YMCA’s basketball gym and indoor pool, to improve facilities for families.
• Mental Health: “I hear consistently from local leaders, health leaders, and faith leaders across the state about the need for a stronger safety net for mental health as well as investment in substance abuse prevention and treatment.”

Marco Rubio (R-FL)

Marco Rubio, a U.S. Senator from Florida elected in 2010, is a member of the Republican Party and currently chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee. With a substantial background in politics, including experience in the U.S. House of Representatives and as Speaker of the Florida House, Rubio brings a focus on issues such as immigration and foreign policy to his role in the Senate.

His platform also reflects a preference for a conservative economic approach, advocating for policies he believes will encourage economic stability and growth. These priorities guide much of his legislative agenda and his work on behalf of his constituents in Florida.

• He enjoys running.
• Pushed for a bill that would require school children to exercise.
• Acknowledges that public health outcomes, increasingly trending the wrong direction as of late.
• Quoted: “the habits of our public schools instilled in our children, will carry forward for the rest of our lives, and they should be a priority to promote health and wellness.”
• Has made the Fittest Senators of 2020, and the 2016 Fitness Race on HFR.
• Mental Health: Fights for mental health amongst the older crowd. “Seniors across the country are suffering from mental health issues and loneliness. That is why I am introducing the SENIOR Act to support Florida’s seniors by addressing this issue and bringing seniors back into our communities.”

Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ)

Arizona shines on the list of the top 10 fittest senators, with both Kyrsten Sinema, an Independent, and her fellow Arizona senator Mark Kelly making the cut. Sinema champions a variety of economic issues, with a strong focus on ensuring veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned and on creating quality, well-paying jobs.

An avid fitness enthusiast, Sinema has made a notable impact within the running community and often promotes the importance of physical health. Her dedication to fitness complements her active role outside the Senate as a professor at Arizona State University, where she spends significant time engaging with students and teaching.

• Kyrsten Sinema is an ultra-marathoner who has completed multiple ultra-marathons, showcasing her endurance and commitment to fitness.
• She has qualified for the prestigious Boston Marathon by achieving the necessary qualifying time.
• Sinema is also the first sitting member of Congress to complete an Ironman triathlon.
• She maintains a rigorous fitness routine, waking up at 4 AM to lift weights.
• Known as a fitness fanatic in the Senate community, she is recognized for her dedication to fitness and healthy living.
• Sinema has competed in an amateur marathon in Paris and participated in marathons around the world.
• Her athletic journey began in high school, where she ran cross country.
• In addition to her physical fitness achievements, Sinema is an advocate for mental health. She joined the Senate Mental Health Caucus and co-authored the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to improve mental health services.
• Sinema supports food security by working to provide additional funding to food banks, ensuring proper nutrition for children and seniors.
• Referenced on multiple articles on HFR including Top 20 Fittest Politicans in America, Fittest United States Representatives, and more.
• Mental Health: “Arizonans struggling with mental health and substance abuse are not alone, and these critical resources will help ensure Arizonans receive the support needed to recover.”

John Thune (R-SD)

John Thune, a U.S. Senator from South Dakota since 2005, has served as a prominent voice in the Senate for nearly two decades. With a background in business administration, Thune brings a unique perspective to his work in government, drawing from both his political and business experiences.

Thune is known for advocating fiscal policies focused on reducing taxes and government spending. He played a key role in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and has consistently supported initiatives that promote economic growth and fiscal responsibility.

Outside of his legislative work, Thune is committed to physical and mental fitness. He actively maintains a healthy lifestyle, openly sharing his fitness routine and serving as a positive role model for others, both in his personal life and through his leadership.

• Enjoys the outdoors and is an avid hunter.
• Involved in community events, promoting activity by attending his grandchildren’s or college sporting events and helping farmers and ranchers with their labors.
• Received a full ride to Biola University in California for basketball.
• Made our 2016 list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators and our 2020 list of the Top 20 Fittest Senators. 
• Recognized as the fastest man in Congress since 2009 by Runner’s World Magazine.
• Introduced the PHIT (Personal Health Investment Today) Act to help with the prices of healthy living because “cost can be a significant barrier to a healthy lifestyle.”
• Advocates for telehealth: Supports policies that expand telehealth services, especially for rural communities.
• Supports rural health: Works on legislation to support rural hospitals and increase transparency for pharmacy benefit managers.
• Promotes physical activity: Encourages Americans to use pre-tax money in health savings accounts or flexible spending accounts for fitness-related purchases like gym memberships and fitness equipment.
• Was interviewed by us back in 2016.
• Mental Health: “I will continue to propose and support efforts to help strengthen telehealth and expand mental health services for Medicare beneficiaries. South Dakotans, especially those in the most rural parts of our state, must have equal access to these critical services.”

“Governor Ron DeSantis, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ron DeSantis (@rondesantis)

Ron DeSantis is the Republican governor of Florida. In his community, he typically takes a very conservative standpoint on key aspects, including education, public health, economy, gun rights, and social issues. Ron DeSantis has always been quite a large advocate for prioritizing fitness as he has shown a commitment to personal well-being and discipline that is very similar to his leadership approach.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ron DeSantis (@rondesantis)

Why is Ron DeSantis one of the fittest governors?

• Has a baseball background.
• He was captain of his college baseball team at Yale and when he was selected his coach in 2001 stated “being voted by your peers says a lot of what they think of you.” This emphasized his early leadership skill and foothold in fitness.
• Often uses his experiences in athletics in his speeches to connect and convey messages.
• Military background: Iraq veteran. He was a Navy lawyer who advised a SEAL commander.
• Engages in running and working out.
• DeSantis’ Dunedin Little League team made it to the Little League World Series in 1991.

Regardless of political affiliation, our elected officials have a unique opportunity to inspire their constituents by embodying a healthy lifestyle and prioritizing physical fitness. By using social media platforms and engaging in community activities, politicians can encourage a culture of wellness that extends beyond the legislative chambers and into the lives of everyday citizens. Each year, we release our rankings of the Fittest Senators in America. To find out who made the list of Fittest Senators in America 2024, click here.

“Senator Jon Ossoff, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Jon Ossoff, a U.S. Senator from Georgia, has represented the Democratic Party since 2020. Prior to his political career, he worked as a filmmaker and investigative journalist, experiences that sharpened his commitment to transparency and accountability. As a senator, Ossoff focuses on issues such as healthcare, voting rights, climate change, and ensuring government accountability. One of his key objectives in office is to expand and improve healthcare access for all.

Ossoff’s love for ultimate frisbee, a sport he grew up playing, remains a source of inspiration for him. He often draws parallels between the teamwork and resilience required in frisbee and the persistence needed in politics, reinforcing his belief in never giving up on important goals.

• Played ultimate frisbee for the men’s U.S. national team.
• Offered a bill that provides a tax credit to grocery stores that open locations in underserved areas to make fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy more available and accessible.
• Introduced the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Access for Children and Seniors Act of 2024.
• Advocates for mental health: Delivered $7.2 million in federal resources to Community Health Centers across Georgia to strengthen access to mental health and substance abuse treatment.

• Supports mental health counseling for students: Delivered federal resources to hire more counselors in Georgia schools.
• Promotes physical fitness: Encourages community members to stay active through outdoor workouts and events.
• Supports local sports, including women’s college volleyball.
• Delivered new resources to help renovate the Albany YMCA’s basketball gym and indoor pool, to improve facilities for families.
• Mental Health: “I hear consistently from local leaders, health leaders, and faith leaders across the state about the need for a stronger safety net for mental health as well as investment in substance abuse prevention and treatment.”

Congratulations to Jon Ossoff on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Governor Kristi Noem, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kristi Noem (@kristinoem)

Kristi Noem is a representative of the Republican party in South Dakota. Her priorities as a governor have represented things such as education reform, healthcare, and economic growth. Through her platform, she has often shared her own fitness regimens, highlighting a promotion of physical health.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kristi Noem (@kristinoem)

Why is Kristi Noem one of the fittest governors?

• She enjoys outdoor living and frequently hunts. 
• Backs freedom works which emphasizes the laborious importance of the working class.
• Takes part in the labor of her community by building a relationship with the national guard.
• Participated in the Buffalo Round Up! Making her a skilled horseback rider.
• Made the Top Fittest Governors in 2020, Top 10% Fittest Congress Members, and Top 100 Fittest Politicians.
• Noem participated in basketball, track, volleyball and cheerleading before her political career.

Congratulations to Kristi Noem on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Senator John Barasso, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator John Barrasso (@senjohnbarrasso)

John Barrasso has been representing Wyoming in the U.S. Senate since 2007. A member of the Republican Party, he currently serves as the chairman of the Senate Republican Conference. Barrasso’s extensive background in both politics and medicine uniquely positions him as a significant figure in healthcare discussions. Before his political career, he was a practicing orthopedic surgeon, which explains his substantial influence in healthcare policy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator John Barrasso (@senjohnbarrasso)

In the Senate, Barrasso has been a vocal advocate for healthcare reform, leveraging his medical background to inform his policy positions. His dual expertise in medicine and politics allows him to address complex healthcare issues with a nuanced perspective, making him a respected voice in the Senate.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator John Barrasso (@senjohnbarrasso)

• Actively involved in the community, engaging with first responders, firefighters, and teachers.
• Enjoys playing and watching football.
• Participated in the Wyoming State Fair parade.
• Advocates for improving public healthcare needs.
• Produced television and radio reports, as well as newspaper articles on health and fitness for over 20 years.
• Served as the Medical Director of Wyoming Health Affairs, focusing on access to preventative medicine across the state.
• Mental Health: “As a doctor, I know firsthand how important it is to recruit and maintain quality mental health professionals. Our bill addresses these issues by giving Medicare patients greater access to mental health services closer to home.”

Congratulations to John Barrasso on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Senator Cory Booker, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cory Booker (@corybooker)

Cory Booker is a politician and attorney currently serving as a U.S. Senator from New Jersey. Representing the Democratic Party, he has been a Senate member since 2013. Booker’s platform is focused on urban development and social justice, making a significant impact on his community.

Booker is passionate about fitness and staying active. He often discusses how exercise helps manage the stresses of public life, emphasizing its importance for mental health claiming that it “helps manage the stresses of public life”. Additionally, his community knows him for his interest in cooking, showcasing his well-rounded approach to a healthy lifestyle.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cory Booker (@corybooker)

Booker is known for his motivational speeches, often sharing stories of waking up as early as 4:45 AM to get outside and embrace the day with a hunger for change. He preaches that giving up is the only way to fail and strongly advocates for individuals to believe in themselves and fight for their beliefs3.

• Regularly posts his fitness workouts and vlogs on his Instagram account.
• Played football at Stanford University, where he was a standout athlete.
• Emphasizes that the only obstacle to achieving fitness and health goals is one’s own doubts.
• Actively involved in the community, often participating in local events and initiatives.
• Gave up added sugar and encourages others to join him in this challenge to improve health.
• Advocates for reinventing our food systems to address food insecurity and rising rates of lifestyle diseases.
• Featured in many articles on the Health Fitness Revolution (HFR) page, including the Fittest Senators in America 2020, and has earned himself a fitness profile.
• Promotes mental health by highlighting the importance of exercise in managing stress and maintaining overall well-being.
• Supports initiatives to improve nutrition and end hunger, working on policies to make healthy food more accessible.
• Mental Health: Fights for college athletes mental health. “It is crucial that our college athletes have the mental health resources and care they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives on and off the field. This legislation will provide more access to mental health resources to provide the necessary support our college athletes need for their health and well-being.”

Congratulations to Cory Booker on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@senbillcassidy)

“Senator Bill Cassidy, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@senbillcassidy)

Bill Cassidy, a Republican U.S. Senator since 2015, brings a strong background in medicine to his role. Before entering politics, he worked as a physician and gastroenterologist, a career path that deeply informs his legislative priorities. Given his healthcare origins, it’s no surprise that his platform emphasizes issues like healthcare access, mental health, and substance abuse treatment. This medical expertise influences his approach to creating policies that promote public health and well-being.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@senbillcassidy)

• Actively promotes outdoor exercise on his social media platforms.
• Treated uninsured patients as a doctor in Louisiana’s charity hospital system, demonstrating his commitment to accessible healthcare.
• Enjoys playing and watching baseball.
• Advocates for natural farming and is actively working on the next farm bill in Washington, D.C.
• Engages in hands-on outdoor work within his community.
• On mental health: Empathetic towards mental health struggles in the community. “Every single one of us has a family history. A loved one, a friend, someone you know, that has serious mental illness.”
• Co-authored the Mental Health Reform Act, which aims to improve mental health services and expand access to care.
• Led bipartisan efforts to pass the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, addressing mental health and burnout among healthcare workers.
• Mental Health: Empathetic of mental struggles in the community. “Every single one of us has a family history. A loved one, a friend, someone you know, that has serious mental illness.”

Congratulations to Bill Cassidy on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joni Ernst (@joniernst)

“Senator Joni Ernst, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joni Ernst (@joniernst)

Joni Ernst, a Republican Senator first elected in 2014, represents Iowa and made history as the first female combat veteran in the U.S. Senate. Her military background strongly shapes her values and advocacy, especially in areas like agriculture, national security, and veterans’ affairs. Known for her determination and commitment to public service, Ernst continually works to strengthen Iowa’s communities.

Fitness is a significant part of Ernst’s life, something she openly embraces. With her military experience, she understands the critical link between physical fitness, mental resilience, and overall well-being. Ernst actively supports initiatives related to nutrition and fitness, aiming to improve public health and inspire others toward a healthy lifestyle.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joni Ernst (@joniernst)

• Ernst starts her day with a morning workout to stay energized and focused.
• She regularly participates in spin classes to maintain her fitness.
• Is an avid baseball fan and often participates in community baseball events.
• Highlights physical fitness awareness month: She promotes physical fitness awareness and encourages others to stay active.
• After graduating from Iowa State University, she joined the United States Army reserves and served in the National Guard for 20 years– Ernst’s military service has instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and commitment to health and fitness.
• Likes to go to the shooting range.
• Ernst introduced the Prioritizing Veterans’ Access to Mental Health Care Act to improve mental health services for veterans.
• She has worked on legislation to improve access to telehealth services, especially for rural communities.
• Promotes healthy eating and nutrition: Ernst supports policies that address food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits.
• Mental Health: Teamed up for the mental health of the agricultural communities. “Iowa farmers are the backbone of our agriculture economy, but first and foremost they’re part of a family. We cannot overlook the mental health struggles our men and women in farming face.”

Congratulations to Joni Ernst on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Thune (@senjohnthune)

“Senator John Thune, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

John Thune, a U.S. Senator from South Dakota since 2005, has served as a prominent voice in the Senate for nearly two decades. With a background in business administration, Thune brings a unique perspective to his work in government, drawing from both his political and business experiences.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Thune (@senjohnthune)

Thune is known for advocating fiscal policies focused on reducing taxes and government spending. He played a key role in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and has consistently supported initiatives that promote economic growth and fiscal responsibility.

Outside of his legislative work, Thune is committed to physical and mental fitness. He actively maintains a healthy lifestyle, openly sharing his fitness routine and serving as a positive role model for others, both in his personal life and through his leadership.

• Enjoys the outdoors and is an avid hunter.
• Involved in community events, promoting activity by attending his grandchildren’s or college sporting events and helping farmers and ranchers with their labors.
• Received a full ride to Biola University in California for basketball.
• Made our 2016 list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators and our 2020 list of the Top 20 Fittest Senators. 
• Recognized as the fastest man in Congress since 2009 by Runner’s World Magazine.
• Introduced the PHIT (Personal Health Investment Today) Act to help with the prices of healthy living because “cost can be a significant barrier to a healthy lifestyle.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Thune (@senjohnthune)

• Advocates for telehealth: Supports policies that expand telehealth services, especially for rural communities.
• Supports rural health: Works on legislation to support rural hospitals and increase transparency for pharmacy benefit managers.
• Promotes physical activity: Encourages Americans to use pre-tax money in health savings accounts or flexible spending accounts for fitness-related purchases like gym memberships and fitness equipment.
• Was interviewed by us back in 2016.
• Mental Health: “I will continue to propose and support efforts to help strengthen telehealth and expand mental health services for Medicare beneficiaries. South Dakotans, especially those in the most rural parts of our state, must have equal access to these critical services.”

Congratulations to John Thune on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kyrsten Sinema (@kyrstensinema)

Arizona shines on the list of the top 10 fittest senators, with both Kyrsten Sinema, an Independent, and her fellow Arizona senator Mark Kelly making the cut. Sinema champions a variety of economic issues, with a strong focus on ensuring veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned and on creating quality, well-paying jobs.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kyrsten Sinema (@kyrstensinema)

An avid fitness enthusiast, Sinema has made a notable impact within the running community and often promotes the importance of physical health. Her dedication to fitness complements her active role outside the Senate as a professor at Arizona State University, where she spends significant time engaging with students and teaching.

• Kyrsten Sinema is an ultra-marathoner who has completed multiple ultra-marathons, showcasing her endurance and commitment to fitness.
• She has qualified for the prestigious Boston Marathon by achieving the necessary qualifying time.
• Sinema is also the first sitting member of Congress to complete an Ironman triathlon.
• She maintains a rigorous fitness routine, waking up at 4 AM to lift weights.
• Known as a fitness fanatic in the Senate community, she is recognized for her dedication to fitness and healthy living.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kyrsten Sinema (@kyrstensinema)

• Sinema has competed in an amateur marathon in Paris and participated in marathons around the world.
• Her athletic journey began in high school, where she ran cross country.
• In addition to her physical fitness achievements, Sinema is an advocate for mental health. She joined the Senate Mental Health Caucus and co-authored the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to improve mental health services.
• Sinema supports food security by working to provide additional funding to food banks, ensuring proper nutrition for children and seniors.
• Referenced on multiple articles on HFR including Top 20 Fittest Politicans in America, Fittest United States Representatives, and more.
• Mental Health: “Arizonans struggling with mental health and substance abuse are not alone, and these critical resources will help ensure Arizonans receive the support needed to recover.”

Congratulations to Krysten Sinema on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Senator Mark Kelly, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Mark Kelly has represented Arizona in the U.S. Senate as a Democrat since winning a special election in 2020. In office, he advocates for a range of issues, including healthcare rights, economic development, and advancing aerospace innovation.

Kelly’s background is deeply rooted in public service. As a former Navy pilot and astronaut, he has dedicated much of his life to serving the country. He co-founded the nonprofit organization Gabby Giffords’ Americans for Responsible Solutions, which promotes gun safety reforms, following the tragic shooting of his wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. This experience intensified his commitment to creating positive change, inspiring his work to build safer, healthier communities across Arizona and the nation.

• Has been on multiple space missions, including STS-108, STS-121, STS-124, and STS-134.
• He is a Navy combat veteran, having flown 39 combat missions during Operation Desert Storm.
• Supports local businesses that promote healthy food.
• Has a background in welding.
• Enjoys baseball and supports the Texas Rangers.
• Referenced in the article “Samir Becic Advocates for Fitness on the National Political Stage at Texas Tribune Fest 2023” on the Health Fitness Revolution page.
• Advocates for mental health awareness and has supported various initiatives to improve mental health services for veterans.
• Promotes physical fitness and has participated in numerous public fitness events.
• Emphasizes the importance of nutrition and healthy eating habits in his public statements and policies.
• Mental Health: “As Arizonans grapple with the social and economic effects of this pandemic, access to mental health care and community resources is more critical than ever. I’m proud to have helped secure this funding, which will go a long way in serving Arizonans who are struggling.”

Congratulations to Mark Kelly on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Senator Markwayne Mullin, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Markwayne Mullin, a Republican senator representing Oklahoma since January 2023, brings a unique blend of business and athletic experience to his role. As the owner of Mullin Plumbing, his family business, Mullin champions policies that advocate for smaller government, lower taxes, and pro-business initiatives, shaped by his firsthand experience as an entrepreneur.

Beyond politics, Mullin’s background as a former professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, with a record of 5-0, underscores his commitment to strength and discipline both in and out of office. His athletic achievements include his induction into the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016, and he actively coaches his children and community members in wrestling.

Mullin is also passionate about promoting physical fitness and mental health. He has led early morning workouts for members of Congress and outdoor sessions for his community, encouraging physical activity among his constituents.

• He was inducted into the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016.
• Coaches his children and others in wrestling. 
• Enjoys horseback riding.
• Has lead members of the House of Representatives in early morning workouts.
• Has lead outdoor workouts with community members. Encouraging those he represents on the senate to get active.
• Has been featured on our lists of the Top 20 Politicians of 2020, Fittest Representatives of 2020, and more.
• Supports local sports such as women’s college volleyball. 
• Inspires his children, with his son following in his footsteps and attending OU for wrestling.
• Co-sponsored the Increasing Mental Health Options Act of 2023 to improve access to mental health services for older Americans.
• Supports local businesses that promote healthy food options.
• Mullin often engages in horseback riding as part of his active lifestyle.
• Mental Health: On expansion for behavioral health Mullin said “I firmly believe addressing mental health is just as important as any physical ailment, and its necessary patients’ records are treated accordingly. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that will improve the quality of care for patients seeking behavioral health care and substance use treatment.”

Congratulations to Markewayne Mulliin on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Senator Chris Murphy, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Chris Murphy, a Democratic U.S. Senator from Connecticut, is known for his strong advocacy in areas like healthcare, foreign policy, and gun control. In response to the tragic rise in mass shootings, Murphy has become a leading voice for responsible gun reform, working to implement policies that enhance public safety.

Murphy is deeply committed to both physical and mental health. He frequently emphasizes the importance of mental health care, pushing for policies that prioritize comprehensive mental health services. Personally, Murphy leads an active lifestyle and often shares his fitness routines, reflecting his belief that physical well-being is a key component of a balanced life. He sees healthcare reform as essential to ensuring public health, advocating for policies that support accessible, high-quality care for all.

• Participated in athletic events, such as the Connecticut Challenge.
• Often rides his bike and enjoys running.
• Gets outside and stays active with his children.
• Actively participates in his community.
• Co-authored the bipartisan Mental Health Reform Act, which was signed into law in 2016 and reauthorized in 2022.
• Fights against loneliness: Leads efforts to address loneliness as a public health issue, introducing legislation to promote social connection.
• Supports the Affordable Care Act and introduced the Choose Medicare Act to allow every American to buy into Medicare.
• Works to combat the opioid epidemic: Secured millions in funding for treatment programs and prevention in Connecticut.
• Promotes healthy eating and nutrition: Supports policies that address food insecurity and promote healthy eating habits.
• Mental Health: Made it his mission to make change. “I have made it my mission in the Senate to improve our nation’s broken mental health system. Too many children and adults in our country do not get the timely, high-quality care they need to live healthy and productive lives.”

Congratulations to Chris Murphy on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Senator Martin Heinrich, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Martin Heinrich, a Democratic U.S. Senator from New Mexico, was recently re-elected due to his steadfast commitment to issues like environmental protection, national security, energy policy, and economic development. These priorities have resonated with his constituents and continue to define his legislative focus.

A strong advocate for healthcare access and affordability, Heinrich champions women’s reproductive rights and freedoms. He is also dedicated to reducing prescription drug costs and expanding healthcare access for all, aiming to create a more equitable healthcare system for New Mexicans and beyond.

• Martin Heinrich’s platform emphasizes not only physical health improvements but also mental health. He has been a strong proponent of mental health care, supporting initiatives like the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
• Actively involved in his community, Heinrich often participates in outdoor labor to make a difference. He has worked on projects to protect public lands and promote conservation.
• Heinrich has participated in marathons, showcasing his commitment to physical fitness.
• Big into hunting and fishing, Heinrich enjoys these activities as part of his lifestyle.
• He informs those in his state about the safe mushrooms to pick and eat, promoting safe foraging practices.

• Heinrich enjoys hiking and biking, often engaging in these activities with his family.
• Featured on our “Fittest Senators in America 2020” list, Heinrich was interviewed by us in 2018 about his fitness routine and healthy lifestyle.

• Mental Health: Focuses on health to all. “These investments will help ensure that more mothers and their newborns can access the health care they need closer to home, and more folks can access the mental health care and substance use treatment when and where they need it.”

Congratulations to Martin Heinrich on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Governor Doug Burgum, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Doug Burgum is a fitness enthusiast who is often seen running and participating in outdoor activities. He is the governor of North Dakota and he has a heavy importance on the health outcomes of communities. He often preaches about combining fitness, mental health and well-being to complete the perfect balance. His platform has focused a lot of their energy onto economic development, workforce issues, and technology initiatives. He represents the Republican party.

• North Dakota was chosen for the National Foundation Of Governors Fitness Councils (NFGFC) for the Don’t Quit campaign, which is shared by Fitness icon Jake “Body by Jake” Steinfeld that helps the health and well-being of North Dakota’s children by getting them interested in fitness and good nutrition.
• He rides horses.
• He enjoys hunting.
• Has personal experiences that help motivate him to stay healthy. 
• He enjoys playing pick up basketball games. He even got hurt playing over a year ago, but reminded everyone injuries happen but we need to keep showing up.

Congratulations to Doug Burgum on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Spencer Cox, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Spencer Cox represents the Republican party in Utah as the governor He has been in this position since 2021, and before his time in this governor role, he has practiced law and public service. Representing a very right wing state, it is understandable that his main platforms revolve around fiscal conservativism, economic development, reformation of education, and more, however he is known to be a very moderate Republican.

Spencer Cox is known for being not just an advocate of physical fitness, but also mental well-being. Cox has been a dominant figure in the governor field to represent individuals who are fitness conscious.

• Enjoys engaging in activities such as running, cycling, and skiing.
• His social media often includes posts that encourage Utahns to be healthy and get outside.
• Advocated for policies to promote access to outdoor recreation, including increasing investment in state parks and public lands.
• Enjoys horseback riding.
• Helps his community with labor tasks, such as structuring new railroads.

Congratulations to Spencer Cox on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Tim Walz, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Governor Tim Walz (@mngovernor)

Tim Walz is a name that has been so incredibly prominent in politics as of lately. He recently just ran for Vice President alongside Kamala Harris. As he returns to Minnesota, he regains his role as governor where he will continue to represent the Democratic Party. Tim Walz has made a huge political career by emphasizing huge focuses on service of the military veterans and huge commitments to health reform and educational growth.

Walz has a military background, as he has served in the US Army National Guard for over 24 years and was even deployed to Bosnia and Iraq. Aside from his political career, Walz made a name for himself as a high school teacher and a football coach in Mankato Minnesota.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Governor Tim Walz (@mngovernor)

Why is Tim Walz one of the fittest governors?

• Did a tiktok with Kate Mackz running through central park. She has made a platform interviewing people on runs.
• Joined the national guard.
• Believes running is the “best stress reliever you can find.”
• High school and football coach.
• Enjoys hunting.
• Provided free school meals to all students in Minnesota.
• Ran the Rochester Marathon.

Congratulations to Tim Walz on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Mike Dunleavy, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Mike Dunleavy is a representative of the Republican party and is currently the governor of Alaska. Through his journey in politics, he has prioritized fiscal responsibility, which surrounds things like resource development, therefore, there is a huge emphasis to prioritize oil and gas initiatives.

A big part of Alaskan culture is being active outside in outdoor activities. Fishing is a much bigger activity in Alaska. Then it probably isn’t a lot of other places in the United States. 

Why is Mike Dunleavy one of the fittest governors?

• He partakes in snowmachining and camping.
• Joined the National Foundation for Governor’s Fitness Council “Don’t Quit” campaign.
• Has been particularly involved in healthcare bills.
• Enjoys outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking.

Congratulations to Mike Dunleavy on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Maura Healey, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Maura Healey is a member of the Democratic Party and she is currently governor of Massachusetts. She has taken a large stance on LGBTQ rights and equality within the state, as she is the first openly gay individual to hold the highest office in the state. 

She has received national recognition for her ideas and executions on things, such as consumer protection, environmental issues, and civil rights.

She has a love for basketball and it is showcased all throughout her Instagram. It is always exciting to see people of power have their niche interests as well!

Why is Maura Healey one of the fittest governors?

• Places emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities.
• Understands and promotes mental health advocation.
• She is interested in cooking healthy foods.
• Walks for pride.
• Enjoys playing basketball and supports University of Massachusetts.
• Promotes health and fitness initiatives.

Congratulations to Maura Healey on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Tina Kotek, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Tina Kotek is a member of the Democratic Party, and she represents Oregon as the governor. Before she was governor, she served as a speaker of the House of Representatives, and throughout her career, she has addressed the importance of changing the narrative around climate change and public safety.

When it comes to physical health, she has often been very outspoken about maintaining overall well-being and being understanding of the demands of life.

Why is Tina Kotek one of the fittest governors?

• She has placed an emphasis on mental health by supporting her fellow citizens of LGBTQ stances.
• Placed an importance of the military.
• Marches for pride events.
• Enjoys the outdoors.
• Partners with clean up teams such as Sullivan Gulch to accomplish better environments.

Congratulations to Tina Kotek on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Senator Marco Rubio, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Senators in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

Marco Rubio, a U.S. Senator from Florida elected in 2010, is a member of the Republican Party and currently chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee. With a substantial background in politics, including experience in the U.S. House of Representatives and as Speaker of the Florida House, Rubio brings a focus on issues such as immigration and foreign policy to his role in the Senate.

His platform also reflects a preference for a conservative economic approach, advocating for policies he believes will encourage economic stability and growth. These priorities guide much of his legislative agenda and his work on behalf of his constituents in Florida.

• He enjoys running.
• Pushed for a bill that would require school children to exercise.
• Acknowledges that public health outcomes, increasingly trending the wrong direction as of late.
• Quoted: “the habits of our public schools instilled in our children, will carry forward for the rest of our lives, and they should be a priority to promote health and wellness.”
• Has made the Fittest Senators of 2020, and the 2016 Fitness Race on HFR.
• Mental Health: Fights for mental health amongst the older crowd. “Seniors across the country are suffering from mental health issues and loneliness. That is why I am introducing the SENIOR Act to support Florida’s seniors by addressing this issue and bringing seniors back into our communities.”

Congratulations to Marco Rubio on making the Fittest Senators in America of 2024 edition.

“Governor Gavin Newsom, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gavin Newsom (@gavinnewsom)

Gavin Newsom is the governor of California and he represents the Democratic Party. With this, he is not only a representative of good fitness and health, but he is also an advocate for the community to do the same. He has promoted physical fitness and mental well-being, which has helped construct a healthier and more resilient California.

Why is Gavin Newsom one of the fittest governors?

• He is listed amongst multiple sources praising his fitness, as he has made The 25 Fittest Men in Politics, Fittest American Politicians, Top 100 Fittest Politicians, and more. 
• Promotes healthy habits being taught to children early for learned behaviors.
• He regularly enjoys running.
• He partakes in cycling.
• Goal to help better community outcomes in health related realms.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gavin Newsom (@gavinnewsom)

• Gets involved in sports and voting interactions.
• Newsom was a shooting guard in basketball and an outfielder in baseball in his high school years.
• He was a left-handed pitcher for Santa Clara, and an injury took him out of the sport.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gavin Newsom (@gavinnewsom)

Congratulations to Gavin Newsom on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Brian Kemp, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

He has promoted an importance of fitness and healthcare throughout his career. A big goal of his is to create new opportunities for Georgia citizens to make positive changes and choices in their lifestyles.

Why is Brian Kemp one of the fittest governors?

• Enjoy outdoor activities, such as hunting and fishing.
• Involved in his community.
• Enjoys football and got to be a part of the Georgia Tech and Georgia State football game coin toss.
• Helps out on occasion with labor jobs.
• Regularly participates in running and fitness events.
• Has fought to improve healthcare access and affordability.

Congratulations to Brian Kemp on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

“Governor Jared Polis, Congratulations on making our list of the Fittest Governors in America 2024. I encourage you to continue inspiring all Americans by promoting healthy lifestyle. You deserve the recognition as a wellness ambassador by setting a powerful example of what it means to lead with vitality and resilience,” says HFR founder Samir Becic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jared Polis (@jaredpolis)

Jared Polis is the governor of Colorado and he has been in office since January of 2019. He represents the Democratic party and focuses a lot on issues that reflect topics such as LGBTQ rights, energy sources, education, and healthcare.

Jared is known for his very active lifestyle in his political career. He emphasizes the importance of fitness, health, and well-being. He also has a strong standpoint on promoting messages of maintaining and uplifting good mental health.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jared Polis (@jaredpolis)

Why is Jared Polis one of the fittest governors?

• Strives for community growth and involvement in fitness.
• Pushed for Colorado to reach new heights of accomplishing stats of a fittest month.
• Pushed for gyms and swimming pools to reopen after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Enjoys walking his dog.
• Likes to fish with his family.
• Stays active by attending and supporting the Denver Broncos.
• Has excitement around attending and supporting PAC-12 football.

Congratulations to Jared Polis on making the Fittest Governors in America 2024 edition.

1. Practice Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is a simple yet powerful tool to reduce stress and anxiety. When you focus on your breath, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body and mind. Research has shown that deep breathing exercises, such as SKY Breath Meditation, can significantly reduce stress levels and improve emotional well-being. By taking a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing, you can create a sense of calm and clarity amidst the chaos.

2. Go for a Walk or Exercise

Physical activity is a proven way to reduce stress and improve mental health. Walking, in particular, offers the benefits of exercise while also providing a chance to clear your mind and enjoy nature. Studies have shown that regular walking can ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, boost mood, and improve overall well-being. Whether it’s a brisk walk around the block or a more intense workout, getting your body moving can help you feel more grounded and less anxious.

3. Limit Media Consumption

While it’s important to stay informed, constantly consuming news can heighten stress and anxiety. Set boundaries for your media consumption by designating specific times to check updates and avoiding news before bedtime. Research has shown that excessive media exposure during stressful events can lead to increased anxiety and emotional distress. By limiting your media intake, you can protect your mental health and maintain a more balanced perspective.

4. Connect with Loved Ones

Social support is crucial during stressful times. Reach out to friends and family to share your thoughts and feelings, and to offer support in return. Studies have shown that social connections can buffer the effects of stress and improve overall mental health. Whether it’s a phone call, video chat, or socially-distanced meetup, connecting with loved ones can provide comfort and reassurance.

5. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation practices can help you stay present and reduce anxiety. Techniques such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) have been shown to improve mental and physical health by promoting a state of calm concentration and positive emotions. By incorporating mindfulness and meditation into your daily routine, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and resilience.

Remember, it’s normal to feel anxious during times of uncertainty. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the election period with greater calm and clarity. Stay informed, stay connected, and take care of your mental health.

A Pivotal Election for Healthcare in America

As we look toward the U.S. 2024 presidential election, healthcare stands as one of the most critical issues shaping the platforms of the two major candidates: Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party and Donald Trump of the Republican Party. Each candidate presents vastly different visions for the future of healthcare in America, and the policies they propose will impact millions of Americans. In this article, we’ll break down each candidate’s healthcare plans, highlighting key differences without bias, to help you understand what each presidency could mean for healthcare in the U.S.

Democratic Stance: Kamala Harris’s Focus on Expanding Healthcare Access

Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party’s candidate, seeks to build on the healthcare reforms established during the Obama administration, specifically focusing on expanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Harris has made it clear that her administration would prioritize increasing access to affordable healthcare, especially for lower-income individuals, minorities, and women.

source: National Vital Statistics Reports Volume 73, Number 2  

Key Points:

• Kamala Harris, the running nominee for the Democratic Party, has future healthcare plans focusing on expanding the affordability of healthcare, an extension of the Affordable Care Act. She hopes to expand Medicare and Medicaid to reach more Americans and lower the costs of obtaining prescription drugs.
• The main target population is the lower SES populations and minorities. Along with this, the Biden-Harris Administration restored Title X plans, which help with clinics that aid in abortion, and overall she advocates for resources to help with mental health. 
• As vice president, Harris has advocated for ideas such as capping insulin expenses at $35 per month and lowering out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries. In the future, she hopes to expand these measures to include all Americans.
• Her approach calls for expanding Medicaid, particularly in states that have not completely implemented it, and focusing on underserved populations, including low-income families and minorities. 
• In accordance with her strong support for reproductive rights, she intends to safeguard and extend access to services such as abortion, establishing herself as a protector of women’s healthcare options. 
• Kamala wants to invest in maternal care, and reproductive access is a top priority in her plan.
• Finally, lowering the price of prescription medicines by allowing the government to interact directly with pharmaceutical firms remains a key component of her agenda, which builds on the gains done under the Biden-Harris administration.
• Kamala Harris’ healthcare agenda is focused on extending access and affordability, with a particular emphasis on protecting and strengthening the Affordable Care Act. 

Republican Stance: Donald Trump’s Market-Driven Healthcare Approach

Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s candidate, favors a more market-driven approach to healthcare. Trump’s healthcare plan focuses on reducing government intervention in the healthcare industry, encouraging competition among private insurance companies, and expanding individual control over healthcare spending. Donald Trump has stated that he wants to get rid of the ACA during his campaign with something that can help with lowering prescription drugs and reducing government involvement. One significant act he did in his last administration was signing the No Surprising Act, which protects patients from being charged with unexpectable bills.  

Key Points:

• Donald Trump’s healthcare program is focused on limiting government involvement in healthcare and boosting market-driven solutions. 
• He continues to advocate for the repeal or significant modification of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), focusing on expanding private insurance options while minimizing federal involvement. 
• He has added and revised plans to ensure HIPPA policies are being met in regards to  plasma donations after COVID-19. 
• His plan calls for increased competition among insurers across state lines, which he says would reduce costs and enhance services like prescription drugs that are even allowed to come in from Canada. 
• A key component of Trump’s healthcare strategy is the promotion of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), which provide people with more control over their healthcare costs. 
• He also wants to reduce regulatory constraints on healthcare providers and streamline the FDA’s drug approval process on things like prescription drugs and e-cigarette use. 
• Trump is also an advocate for telemedicine, particularly as a way to enhance healthcare access in rural areas, which he’ll further enhance during his new term as president. 
• Trump has previously supported Medicaid work requirements, which would link benefits to employment or job training, reflecting his overall policy of reducing government healthcare interventions and emphasizing personal responsibility in accessing treatments.

Contrasting Visions for Healthcare

The healthcare platforms of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump represent two starkly different visions for America. Harris’s focus is on expanding access to healthcare through government programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act, with a strong emphasis on affordability, reproductive health, and mental health services. In contrast, Trump’s approach is rooted in reducing government involvement, promoting private insurance, and expanding market-driven solutions like Health Savings Accounts and telemedicine. Here, Forbes provides a side-by-side comparison of the candidates’ healthcare policies.

As voters consider these plans, it’s clear that the future of healthcare in America will be shaped by the outcome of this election. Understanding each candidate’s stance is vital to making an informed decision at the polls.

To see the full first debate among the two candidates, click here. 

Abortion, the medical process of terminating a pregnancy, has been one of the most polarizing political issues in the United States. The debate over abortion rights first reached the Supreme Court in 1973 with Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion nationwide and established a woman’s constitutional right to choose to terminate her pregnancy. This ruling was overturned in 2022 by Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, shifting the power to regulate abortion back to individual states. Since the Dobbs decision, several states have enacted severe restrictions or outright bans on abortion, bringing the issue of reproductive rights to the forefront of the 2024 election.

What is Abortion?

Abortion can be performed in two ways: through medication or surgery. The method used depends on the stage of the pregnancy and the woman’s health. There are many reasons why women choose to have abortions, including unplanned pregnancies, financial or social instability, health risks to the mother, or cases of fetal abnormalities. Some pregnancies, such as ectopic pregnancies, are life-threatening and require medical termination to protect the mother’s life.

Reasons Women Choose Abortion:

• Health Risks: Conditions like preeclampsia, cancer, or heart disease may make it unsafe for a woman to carry a pregnancy to term​(Abortions rights in Ame…).
• Fetal Anomalies: Severe fetal conditions may be diagnosed during pregnancy, leading to the choice to terminate​(Abortions rights in Ame…).
• Rape or Incest: Some women seek abortions as a result of pregnancies that result from sexual violence.
• Socioeconomic Factors: Many women cite financial instability, lack of support, or an inability to provide for a child as reasons for seeking an abortion​(Abortions rights in Ame…).
• Personal Choice: Some women choose abortion due to personal reasons, such as feeling unprepared for motherhood or wanting to focus on education or career​(Abortions rights in Ame…).

Abortion access has significant implications for women’s health and autonomy, making it a critical issue for voters in the upcoming election.

Democratic Stance: Pro-Choice and Reproductive Rights

The Democratic Party firmly supports a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body. They believe that the government should not interfere in the relationship between a woman and her healthcare provider when it comes to abortion. Democrats, led by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, have pushed for federal protections that guarantee access to safe, legal abortion services, especially in states where restrictive laws have been passed following the Dobbs decision.

Democrats have provided such a strong emphasis that back during the Biden-Harris administration released this statement “more than 20 states have imposed extreme and dangerous abortion bans—many of which include no exception even for rape or incest—that put the health and lives of women in jeopardy, force women to travel hundreds of miles for care, and threaten to criminalize doctors for providing the health care that their patients need and that they are trained to provide.” Kamala Harris’s views on abortion are very pro-choice advocacy on expanding abortion services.

Key Points:

• Kamala Harris on Abortion Rights: “The government should never come between a woman and her doctor. Never,” Harris said during a speech in Jacksonville, Florida, in May 2024​. “This is a fight for freedom—the fundamental freedom to make decisions about one’s own body and have their government tell them what they’re supposed to do.” She’s been very vocal about where she stands. She has been a vocal advocate for expressing concerns about women’s healthcare after Roe v. Wade. “Following the Supreme Court’s unprincipled decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, states banned abortion altogether. This criminalization of basic, necessary reproductive health care has taken an incalculable toll on people’s lives. Since Roe was overturned, I have met women who were refused care during a miscarriage… only when she developed sepsis did she receive care.”
• Bodily Autonomy: Democrats emphasize that decisions regarding abortion should be made by women, guided by their doctors, without government intervention. Vice President Harris has been a vocal advocate, stating, “The government should never come between a woman and her doctor.”​
• Healthcare Access: The Democratic platform highlights the need for safe access to abortion, particularly for low-income women and women of color, who are disproportionately affected by abortion restrictions​.
• Legislative Action: The Biden-Harris administration has called for the passage of federal legislation to protect reproductive rights. They argue that state-level bans on abortion put women’s health at risk, particularly in cases of rape, incest, or life-threatening conditions.

Supporting Links:

• White House Statement on Reproductive Rights
• CNN Coverage on Kamala Harris’s Abortion Stance

Republican Stance: Pro-Life and State Rights

Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, holds a firm anti-abortion stance and supports more restrictive abortion laws. He played a crucial role in appointing three conservative justices to the Supreme Court, which led to the overturning of Roe v. Wade. While Trump has expressed opposition to a national abortion ban, he believes that individual states should have the right to set their own abortion laws. His platform aligns with anti-abortion views and has pushed for bans at the state level, where under the Republican Party, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act makes the restriction that a woman cannot have an abortion after the 15-week mark. State-level laws have shown resentment due to the Roe v. Wade outcome of having the ultimate choice.

Recently, in 2023, Trump said “I wouldn’t sign a national abortion ban,” but later emphasized that it should be up to the states to decide. For example, Florida had a 6-week ban, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a 30% reduction of in clinical abortions in the month of May. He has encouraged states to make their laws as strict as possible and that “individual states and their cultures and their unique political sensibilities should make these decisions because we don’t want to have a nonstop federal conflict over this issue,” Vance said. He has always made claims that he will propose the traditional values of life and be more pro-life than pro-choice like Democrats. He has made public statements that he’ll always push for pro-life policies, and once he is in office, he will make federal and state policies much stricter. The Republican Party has always advocated for a pro-life view on abortion, where it’s a crime to end a life being very conservative and having a Christian ideology. 

Key Points:

• Donald Trump on Abortion: “I am pro-life. I hate the concept of abortion,” Trump declared during a previous interview, emphasizing his support for more restrictive state-level abortion laws​.
• State Control: Trump has emphasized that abortion policy should be determined at the state level, stating, “Alabama is going to make a different decision from California, and that’s OK”​.
• Pro-Life Ideology: Trump has consistently promoted a pro-life platform, arguing that the rights of unborn children should be protected under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
• Defunding Planned Parenthood: Trump has pledged to defund organizations like Planned Parenthood as long as they continue to offer abortion services​.

Supporting Links:

• Politico Coverage on Trump and Abortion Policy
• Guttmacher Institute Data on State-Level Abortion Restrictions

The Diverging Paths of 2024

The 2024 presidential election presents two vastly different approaches to abortion rights. On one side, the Democratic Party continues to advocate for a woman’s right to choose, pushing for federal protections to ensure access to safe and legal abortion services. On the other side, the Republican Party, led by Donald Trump, supports pro-life policies, advocating for states to impose stricter abortion laws and protecting what they view as the rights of the unborn. As voters head to the polls, abortion remains a pivotal issue that will influence the direction of reproductive rights in America for years to come. Here is the clip from the 2024 Presidential Debate:

School Nutrition Programs

Whether you have children or not, they are the future of our communities, and keeping them safe and healthy should be a top priority. Healthy school meals are essential for children’s growth and development. Former First Lady Michelle Obama was a pioneer in setting new nutrition standards for schools with her law. Voting for school board members who prioritize nutrition can lead to healthier meal options and improved food education. The HBO documentary, “The Weight of the Nation,” highlights the struggles of the obesity epidemic, emphasizing poor nutrition and lack of access to parks and recreation as two of the main causes.

Access to Healthcare

Local governments play a significant role in determining healthcare access, a crucial social determinant of health. When choosing our representatives, we should prioritize those who are committed to improving healthcare resources for residents. Policies that support community clinics, mental health services, and affordable care can significantly enhance overall health outcomes.

Community clinics often serve as a lifeline for underprivileged populations, providing essential services such as vaccinations, screenings, and primary care. Local governments can allocate funding to expand these clinics, making healthcare more accessible to those in need.

Mental health is another critical area that benefits from robust local policies. By ensuring that mental health services are readily available and affordable, local governments can address the growing mental health crisis, reduce stigma, and support the well-being of their citizens.

Affordable care is the backbone of a healthy community. Local representatives can advocate for policies that lower healthcare costs, such as subsidizing insurance premiums, capping medication prices, and expanding Medicaid coverage. These measures can alleviate financial burdens on families and ensure that everyone has access to necessary medical care.

Parks and Recreational Spaces

Access to parks and recreational areas plays a vital role in promoting physical activity and mental well-being. Local policies dictate the funding for parks, their maintenance, and the creation of safe spaces for exercise and relaxation. By voting in local elections, you can ensure that your community prioritizes and invests in green spaces.

Parks provide a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, offering a place to recharge and connect with nature. They serve as venues for physical activities such as jogging, cycling, and group sports, which are essential for maintaining physical health. Additionally, parks offer serene environments for mental relaxation, meditation, and social interaction, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Parks and green spaces also foster a sense of community by providing common areas for residents to gather, celebrate, and engage in recreational activities.

Here is an article about the importance of spending time outdoors. Check out your local city parks, often times they come with a great view, here are some of the best Houston options.

Transportation Infrastructure

Public transportation and walkable neighborhoods play a crucial role in influencing physical activity levels and air quality. Houston, as one of the few major cities lacking an effective train and bus public transport system, presents a unique challenge. Voting in the next election for candidates who prioritize public transportation can lead to significant improvements for commuters and the community as a whole.

Local leaders have the power to implement policies that enhance public transit, create bike lanes, and improve sidewalks. These measures make it easier for residents to stay active and reduce their reliance on cars, which in turn can lower air pollution levels. Improved public transportation options can also provide more equitable access to essential services, such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

Investing in walkable neighborhoods promotes a healthier lifestyle by encouraging residents to engage in physical activities like walking and cycling. Safe and well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and bike lanes create an environment where people feel comfortable and motivated to move around on foot or by bike.

Moreover, walkable neighborhoods foster a sense of community by providing spaces for social interaction and connection. Parks, public squares, and community centers become more accessible, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Housing Policies

Safe and affordable housing is fundamental to health. Local policies that promote affordable housing initiatives can reduce homelessness and improve living conditions, directly impacting physical and mental health. This aspect is closely tied to another key social determinant of health: the neighborhood and built environment. By focusing on these areas, local governments can create healthier, more equitable communities.

Affordable housing initiatives can provide stability for families, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives, such as education, employment, and healthcare. Stable housing reduces stress and anxiety, which can have significant positive effects on mental health. It also lowers the risk of physical ailments associated with poor living conditions, such as respiratory issues from mold and dampness.

Improving neighborhood environments goes hand in hand with promoting safe and affordable housing. Well-planned neighborhoods with access to essential services, green spaces, and recreational facilities enhance the quality of life for residents. Local governments can implement zoning laws and development policies that encourage mixed-use developments, ensuring that housing, shops, schools, and parks are all within easy reach.

Furthermore, community-focused policies that prioritize public safety, clean streets, and well-maintained infrastructure contribute to a sense of belonging and pride among residents. This, in turn, fosters social cohesion and support networks, which are crucial for overall well-being.

Environmental Regulations

Local policies related to environmental protection, waste management, and air quality have a significant impact on public health. After all, what could be more important than the air we breathe and the water we drink? Alarmingly, there are still communities within our country that struggle to access clean water. Voting for candidates who prioritize environmental issues can lead to cleaner air, safer neighborhoods, and a healthier future for everyone.

Environmental protection policies ensure that our natural resources are preserved and that our environment remains safe and clean. These policies can reduce pollution levels, protect wildlife habitats, and promote sustainable practices that benefit the entire community.

Waste management is another critical area where local policies make a difference. Effective waste management systems can minimize the negative impact of waste on the environment, reduce the spread of disease, and create a cleaner, more livable community. By supporting candidates who advocate for robust waste management policies, we can ensure that our communities remain safe and healthy.

Air quality is directly linked to numerous health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and even premature death. Local governments can implement policies that reduce air pollution, such as regulating industrial emissions, promoting clean energy sources, and encouraging the use of public transportation. These measures can significantly improve the air quality in our neighborhoods and enhance overall public health.

One example of how local policies can improve public health is by ensuring that residential areas are kept at a safe distance from chemical plants and other sources of harmful substances. While it may be tempting to use such locations for cheaper housing, the long-term health risks far outweigh the short-term benefits. Prioritizing safe and healthy living conditions should always come first.

Community Campaigns and Programs

Local governments often run public health campaigns focused on issues like vaccination, disease prevention, and health education. Supporting representatives who invest in these initiatives can significantly enhance community health. Local leaders also influence funding for community programs that promote health education, wellness workshops, and outreach initiatives. Voting for candidates who prioritize community engagement can create numerous opportunities to encourage a healthier community overall.

Vaccination campaigns are crucial for preventing outbreaks of diseases and ensuring herd immunity. Local governments play a vital role in organizing and promoting these campaigns, making vaccines accessible and educating the public about their importance. Elected officials who prioritize health can drive policies that support widespread vaccination efforts, protecting the community from preventable diseases.

Disease prevention programs focus on identifying and mitigating health risks before they become widespread issues. This includes initiatives like screening programs for chronic diseases, public awareness campaigns about hygiene and sanitation, and measures to control the spread of infectious diseases. Representatives who champion these programs can help create a safer and healthier environment for everyone.

Health education is another key area where local policies can make a difference. By funding programs that provide information on nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and substance abuse prevention, local governments can empower residents to make informed choices about their health. Workshops and community events can serve as platforms for disseminating this valuable information and fostering a culture of health and wellness.

Community engagement is essential for the success of public health initiatives. Leaders who prioritize community involvement can facilitate better communication between the government and residents, ensuring that health programs are responsive to the community’s needs. They can also encourage collaborations with local organizations, schools, and businesses to amplify the impact of health campaigns.

Job Access for Economic Growth

Local economic development policies have a significant impact on job opportunities and income levels, both of which are closely linked to health. Supporting candidates who focus on equitable economic growth can improve health outcomes for the entire community. While national economic policies play a role, ensuring that people in your area have access to jobs is a crucial first step. With unemployment rates at a new record high, the job market requires focused attention.

Economic development at the local level can create a ripple effect, leading to increased employment, higher wages, and improved quality of life. By investing in job training programs, small business support, and infrastructure projects, local governments can stimulate economic growth and provide residents with the resources they need to succeed.

Access to stable employment not only provides financial security but also offers benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. This stability reduces stress and allows individuals to focus on their health and well-being. Moreover, employed individuals contribute to the local economy, creating a cycle of growth and prosperity.

Voting locally is more than just a civic duty that we have. It’s an opportunity to advocate for policies and people that want what is best for our health and well-being. By understanding the connection between local governance and public health, we can make informed choices at the ballot box. Although the primary elections are over, we should keep this in mind for the upcoming year. Each vote is a chance to improve the quality of life in our communities, paving the way for healthier, happier lives for all. Let’s take action and make our voices heard, our health depends on it!

My campaign kickoff for the 18th Congressional District last weekend was a huge success. It was a success because we had a diverse showing and I am grateful for everyone's support.

I am reminded each day on this journey that this election is not just for me, it is for every… pic.twitter.com/3HLvTOJLpi

— Sylvester Turner (@SylvesterTurner) September 29, 2024

During his transformative two terms as Houston’s 62nd mayor, Turner implemented a series of bold initiatives that fundamentally reshaped the city. His hallmark program, “Complete Communities,” was a groundbreaking approach to revitalizing Houston’s most underserved neighborhoods. By focusing on improving infrastructure, expanding affordable housing, and increasing access to essential services like healthcare and education, Turner not only elevated the standard of living but also set a new standard for equitable urban development nationwide.

A leader who rose to the occasion in moments of crisis, Turner was instrumental in navigating Houston through Hurricane Harvey,one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history. His swift and empathetic coordination of relief efforts ensured the safety and recovery of thousands of residents. Turner’s resilience and decisive actions during this time earned him widespread acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a compassionate and capable leader under pressure.

Turner’s impact went beyond crisis management. Under his guidance, Houston experienced significant economic growth, driven by his support for the city’s burgeoning technology sector and his push for an energy transition that prioritized sustainability. As a champion for renewable energy and environmental conservation, Turner worked tirelessly to reduce Houston’s carbon footprint, positioning the city as a leader in the fight against climate change.

Public safety also improved under Turner’s leadership, with a noticeable reduction in the city’s crime rate thanks to comprehensive reforms within the police department and community outreach programs that fostered trust between law enforcement and residents. His administration’s commitment to developing green spaces and public parks further contributed to Houston’s overall livability and well-being, benefiting both current and future generations.

Turner’s dedication to fiscal responsibility is another highlight of his tenure. His reforms to the city’s pension systems were a pivotal achievement, stabilizing long-term city finances while ensuring retirees’ benefits. He also spearheaded efforts to combat homelessness, implementing innovative housing solutions and mental health services that significantly reduced the number of people living on the streets.

Beyond his focus on economic growth and public safety, Sylvester Turner has been a tireless advocate for the health and wellness of Houstonians. Under his leadership, Houston saw the addition of more than 300 miles of bike lanes as part of the Houston Bike Plan, promoting active transportation and reducing the city’s carbon footprint​. Turner also spearheaded the renovation of Memorial Park, turning it into a premier green space that now offers improved recreational facilities for Houstonians to stay active and enjoy nature. Further cementing his commitment to fitness, Turner named Samir Becic as Houston’s official “Fitness Czar,” empowering Becic to lead initiatives that encourage healthier lifestyles across the city. This appointment exemplified Turner’s belief in creating a holistic environment for residents to thrive physically, mentally, and socially​.

Reflecting on his time as mayor in his final State of the City address, Turner humbly stated, “I have given you my best.” His leadership through seven federally declared disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated his unwavering resilience and commitment to serving his community through the most challenging circumstances. 

Sylvester Turner’s candidacy for the U.S. Congress is especially poignant, as he seeks to represent the seat once held by the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a longtime ally and partner in service. Their decades-long collaboration focused on uplifting Houston’s most vulnerable communities through shared advocacy for affordable housing, public safety, and equitable disaster relief efforts. Together, they worked tirelessly on projects like the “Complete Communities” initiative and secured crucial federal funding to help the city recover from natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey. Turner and Jackson Lee also aligned on national issues such as civil rights, voting protections, and healthcare reforms, always striving to create a more just and inclusive society. Now, as Turner campaigns to fill her seat, his run feels poetic—a continuation of their shared legacy, committed to advancing the causes they both so passionately championed for the people of Houston.

As Turner successfully campaigns for U.S. Congress, his wealth of experience and proven track record position him as a powerful candidate. His focus on stability, progress, and continuity in leadership resonates deeply with the constituents of the 18th District, who are eager for a representative with the foresight and determination to preserve the legacy of their community while driving positive change.

From the Northwest to Jacinto City, I participated in numerous National Night Out events this past week and was happy to connect with fellow 18th Congressional District residents.

As the 18th Congressional District's next representative, I will continue working with all our… pic.twitter.com/87nrx21p7I

— Sylvester Turner (@SylvesterTurner) October 6, 2024

Turner’s campaign has gained tremendous traction, reflecting both his strong connection to the community and his extensive network of supporters. As he steps onto the national stage, Turner remains grounded in the values that have guided him throughout his career: integrity, service, and an unrelenting commitment to bettering the lives of his constituents.

We have chronicled Turner’s remarkable contributions and achievements. His ability to lead with both compassion and strength has made a lasting impact on the city of Houston, and we are excited to witness the continued positive change he will bring to the Historic 18th District and beyond.

Throughout his career, Becic has wholeheartedly devoted himself to inspiring and empowering Americans to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles. As the founder of Health Fitness Revolution magazine and the innovative ReSync Fitness Method, Becic’s influential message has resonated with millions of individuals worldwide, thanks to his impactful work, magazine, public engagements, and high-profile physical challenges. His Amazon best-selling book, ReSYNC Your Life, provides a comprehensive blueprint for holistic wellness.

Among his numerous achievements, Becic has been honored as the #1 Fitness Trainer in America four times by Bally Total Fitness. Acknowledging his remarkable service, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner officially declared January 10th, 2023, as “Samir Becic Day.” Furthermore, earlier this year, President Joe Biden bestowed upon Becic the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his invaluable contributions to society.

For his part, Becic remains committed to his mission of providing health and wellness resources to communities throughout Texas and the entire nation. Through dynamic keynote speeches, bestselling books, and his pioneering fitness techniques, Becic continues to be a national leader in the battle against obesity, actively promoting vibrant and fulfilling lifestyles. This congressional proclamation serves as a celebration of his tireless efforts and profound influence, underscoring his significant contributions to the field of health and fitness.

It was a great honor to meet the legendary U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee @JacksonLeeTX18 who is currently serving her 13th consecutive term (since 1995)! I presented her with my book ReSYNC Your Life. pic.twitter.com/a5fT1hhCV0

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) July 2, 2019

Congresswoman Jackson Lee expressed that the proclamation is a testament to Becic’s unwavering advocacy and years of philanthropic endeavors through organizations like the Samir Becic Foundation 501(c)3 and Health Fitness Revolution: “NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, on behalf of the constituents of the Eighteenth Congressional District of Texas, I take great pride in recognizing Samir Becic as Houston’s Official Fitness Czar. Your commitment and prolific advocacy of physical fitness as an instrument for improving America’s health, your nationwide impact through your Health Fitness Revolution magazine that has inspired over 16 million people, and your decade-long commitment to motivating the United States Congress to support health initiatives exemplifies the spirit of Houston and the Great State of Texas. Your service to the City of Houston, the State of Texas, and the United States for the past 20 years and over 15,000 hours volunteered is most deserving of the respect, admiration, and commendation of the United States Congress.”

Samir holds Congresswoman Jackson Lee in the highest regard, recognizing her legendary reputation that precedes her. In his own words, he states, “Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is an American political icon whose strength has been a true inspiration to millions, particularly women, empowering them to pursue their dreams.”

Sheila Jackson Lee, a formidable force in politics, has been the unwavering representative of Texas’ 18th Congressional District since 1995. With a commitment to her constituents, she has cemented her position as a highly influential figure in the House of Representatives, earning recognition from “Congressional Quarterly” as one of the 50 most effective members in Congress.

Jackson Lee’s remarkable educational background further adds to her credibility and expertise. She is a graduate of both Yale University and the prestigious University of Virginia Law School, a testament to her intellectual prowess and dedication to academic excellence. As a member of the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget Committees, Jackson Lee continues to shape legislation and policies that have a lasting impact on the nation. Her focus on critical issues and her ability to navigate complex legislative processes have earned her immense respect among her peers.

Throughout her extensive tenure, Jackson Lee has spearheaded crucial bills that tackle pressing societal challenges head-on. She has taken a firm stance against bullying, recognized the need for reform in the criminal justice system, and championed bills that address prison overcrowding, promote prison reform, and ensure fairness in sentencing. By consistently advocating for comprehensive reforms, Sheila Jackson Lee has proven herself to be a powerful force for change. Her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to her constituents make her an indispensable voice in Congress, elevating her status as a trailblazer and a champion for a more just and equitable society.

Sheila Jackson Lee, the distinguished U.S. Representative, announced her candidacy for Mayor of Houston months ago, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to public service to the race. With a proven track record of advocating for her constituents and tackling critical issues, Jackson Lee aims to lead Houston into a prosperous future. Her platform emphasizes economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development. As a trusted leader, she plans to engage with the community, listen to their concerns, and work collaboratively to address the city’s challenges. With her vision, leadership, and dedication, Sheila Jackson Lee offers a promising choice for the residents of Houston as they consider the future of their beloved city. The run-off election is December 9th, 2023. If elected, Jackson Lee would be Houston’s first Black female mayor, a meaningful change for America’s fourth-largest city.

This dedication to community wellness is exemplified by Jackson Lee’s recent recognition of renowned health and fitness expert Samir Becic. Known as the “Fitness Czar” of Houston, Becic was presented with a rare congressional proclamation by Jackson Lee on December 5ht, 2023 in recognition of his exceptional contributions and dedicated service to promoting wellness in the community. As the founder of Health Fitness Revolution, Becic has made significant strides in raising awareness about the benefits of physical activity and proper nutrition. Through his dedication and passion, he has positively impacted countless lives in the Houston community and beyond. Jackson Lee’s recognition of Becic’s efforts highlights her deep commitment to supporting individuals and organizations that prioritize the well-being of Houston residents.

What these next days will look like… pic.twitter.com/KFnnIR6zFQ

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@SJacksonLee) November 10, 2023

Throughout his career, Becic has wholeheartedly devoted himself to inspiring and empowering Americans to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles. As the founder of Health Fitness Revolution magazine and the innovative ReSync Fitness Method, Becic’s influential message has resonated with millions of individuals worldwide, thanks to his impactful work, magazine, public engagements, and high-profile physical challenges. His Amazon best-selling book, ReSYNC Your Life, provides a comprehensive blueprint for holistic wellness. Among his numerous achievements, Becic has been honored as the #1 Fitness Trainer in America four times by Bally Total Fitness. Acknowledging his remarkable service, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner officially declared January 10th, 2023, as “Samir Becic Day.” Furthermore, earlier this year, President Joe Biden bestowed upon Becic the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his invaluable contributions to society.

It is this commitment to community wellness that aligns Becic’s work perfectly with Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s steadfast advocacy for health. As the representative of Texas’ 18th Congressional District since 1995, Jackson Lee has cemented her position as a highly influential figure through her commitment to her constituents. She has consistently shown her dedication to raising awareness about mental health and advocating for improved access to mental health services. Recognizing the significant impact of mental health on individuals and communities, she has actively supported legislation to increase funding for mental health initiatives and expand mental health resources in Houston. Her efforts aim to destigmatize mental issues and ensure access to care and support.

Recent polling data further emphasizes the importance of mental health in Houston, as a majority of voters expressed their desire for the next mayor to prioritize mental health. In fact, nearly half of the respondents reported experiencing some level of anxiety, depression, or both and 80% said they want the next mayor to focus on mental health as a matter of public policy. This aligns with Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s advocacy and underscores the relevance and urgency of her work in addressing mental health concerns in the community.

I have worked hard to secure federal funding for mental health services, and additionally fought to ensure that health care plans also covered mental health needs. Every year, I have added an additional $2 million for PTSD counseling services for our veterans.

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@JacksonLeeTX18) October 11, 2023

In addition, Jackson Lee is a strong proponent of the importance of an active lifestyle. She believes physical activity is essential to maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases; she herself can frequently be seen entering stages while dancing. Through her campaign, she emphasizes the need for accessible recreational facilities, parks, and green spaces in Houston neighborhoods to encourage physical activity and healthy living. By promoting initiatives that encourage exercise and fitness, she aims to improve the overall well-being of Houstonians.

Federal funds make a difference!

I joined Mayor @SylvesterTurner, Rep. Senfronia Thompson, and community partners today to break ground on a new state-of-the-art pool center at Tidwell park.

Families in the neighborhood will really enjoy this — let’s keep the progress going! pic.twitter.com/JiocVKGrhi

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@JacksonLeeTX18) October 28, 2023

Congresswoman Jackson Lee expressed that the proclamation is a testament to Becic’s unwavering advocacy and years of philanthropic endeavors through organizations like the Samir Becic Foundation 501(c)3 and Health Fitness Revolution: “NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, on behalf of the constituents of the Eighteenth Congressional District of Texas, I take great pride in recognizing Samir Becic as Houston’s Official Fitness Czar. Your commitment and prolific advocacy of physical fitness as an instrument for improving America’s health, your nationwide impact through your Health Fitness Revolution magazine that has inspired over 16 million people, and your decade-long commitment to motivating the United States Congress to support health initiatives exemplifies the spirit of Houston and the Great State of Texas. Your service to the City of Houston, the State of Texas, and the United States for the past 20 years and over 15,000 hours volunteered is most deserving of the respect, admiration, and commendation of the United States Congress.”

Samir holds Congresswoman Jackson Lee in the highest regard, recognizing her legendary reputation that precedes her. In his own words, he states, “Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is an American political icon whose strength has been a true inspiration to millions, particularly women, empowering them to pursue their dreams.”

Houston we are ready and energized for the runoff!! Thank you to all of you who voted and supported me yesterday. pic.twitter.com/srGxCMlrhG

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@SJacksonLee) November 8, 2023

Jackson Lee’s remarkable educational background further adds to her credibility and expertise. She is a graduate of both Yale University and the prestigious University of Virginia Law School, a testament to her intellectual prowess and dedication to academic excellence. As a member of the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget Committees, Jackson Lee continues to shape legislation and policies that have a lasting impact on the nation. Her focus on critical issues and her ability to navigate complex legislative processes have earned her immense respect among her peers.

Pleased to deliver six million dollars in federal funds to HPD to hire more officers, invest in violence intervention, and strengthen our response to domestic violence.

Federal/city partnerships are essential in our efforts to make our city safer! pic.twitter.com/m1NCxISRDX

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@JacksonLeeTX18) November 4, 2023

Throughout her extensive tenure, Jackson Lee has spearheaded crucial bills that tackle pressing societal challenges head-on. She has taken a firm stance against bullying, recognized the need for reform in the criminal justice system, and championed bills that address prison overcrowding, promote prison reform, and ensure fairness in sentencing. By consistently advocating for comprehensive reforms, Sheila Jackson Lee has proven herself to be a powerful force for change. Her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to her constituents make her an indispensable voice in Congress, elevating her status as a trailblazer and a champion for a more just and equitable society.

America Wants Sheila Jackson Lee as Houston Mayor

Sheila Jackson Lee, the distinguished U.S. Representative, is currently running for Houston Mayor, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to public service to the race. She has been endorsed by a long list of politicians and celebrities alike, including President Bill Clinton, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, House Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, among many more. With a proven track record of advocating for her constituents and tackling critical issues, Jackson Lee aims to lead Houston into a prosperous future. Her platform emphasizes economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development. As a trusted leader, she plans to engage with the community, listen to their concerns, and work collaboratively to address the city’s challenges.

Sheila’s Achievements and Contributions

Here is a list to start with:

She was part of the first class of women to ever attend Yale

Authored and passed bipartisan legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday.

Helped to secure $100 billion in relief after Hurricane Harvey,… pic.twitter.com/nk0ophHMVr

— Ling Luo (@LingLuo_AALC) November 26, 2023

With her vision, leadership, and dedication, Sheila Jackson Lee offers a promising choice for the residents of Houston as they consider the future of their beloved city. The run-off election is December 9th, 2023. If elected, Jackson Lee would be Houston’s first Black female mayor, a meaningful change for America’s fourth-largest city.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Runoff Election Day is SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9th

Fired up by all the support we’ve received so far!! pic.twitter.com/GsOVXCL3bk

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@SJacksonLee) November 10, 2023

The Srebrenica genocide is considered one of the worst atrocities in Europe since World War II. It occurred during the Bosnian War, which lasted from 1992 to 1995. But what made it even more horrific was the forcible transfer and abuse of between 25,000 and 30,000 Bosniak women, children, and elderly that accompanied the massacre. To this day, their families still grieve their loss. 

In 2007, the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled that the massacre and the accompanying atrocities constituted genocide. But the scars of the war and the genocide are still fresh. Bosnia is a country struggling to heal and unite its people in the aftermath of the destruction. Ethnic cleansing, rape, destruction, concentration camps, and mass killings became the norm, leaving over 100,000 people dead and 2.2 million displaced.

As a result of the war in Bosnia, and the subsequent genocide, Bosnia, its core values, and everything that its people stood for were destroyed.

The Honorable Mayor Ed Gainey of Pittsburgh, PA, has granted Samir’s request to proclaim Jul 11, 2023, as Bosnia-Herzegovina Day in Pittsburgh in remembrance of the Srebrenica genocide. Samir is humbled by the powerful gesture and thankful “On behalf of Bosnian-Americans, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the City of Pittsburgh and the honorable Mayor Ed Gainey for granting my request for Bosnia and Herzegovina Day.”

Samir was deeply affected by the Srebrenica genocide, a mass killing of over 8,000 Bosniak (Bosnian) men and boys by Bosnian Serb forces in July 1995. His own hometown of Kljuc was one of the locations also hit by Serbian forces, where 784 victims were killed (and 34 victims are still unaccounted for), including his family members, his neighbors, and his school friends. From one day to the next, they vanished. Having personally experienced the horrors and loss of the Bosnian War, Samir realized that many people in America are not aware of this tragic event and its significance.

Determined to change that, Samir’s campaign urges American Mayors to raise awareness about the genocide and honor the memory of the victims. His efforts to educate these mayors about the Srebrenica genocide demonstrate the power of individual action.

Samir’s personal experience with war and displacement inspired him to help others and promote peace, fueling his career in health and fitness. And now, his outreach to the mayors of major cities in America is an inspiring example of how one person can make a difference.

It is essential to educate people about the Srebrenica genocide to promote understanding, tolerance, and peace. By learning about the past, we can work towards a better future.

Samir’s mission highlights the importance of remembering history and promoting tolerance and peace. His outreach to the mayors of the largest cities in America is an inspiring example of how to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem.

Let’s honor the memory of the victims of the Srebrenica genocide and ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

Becic’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle among political leaders is not new. In 2021, as part of an earlier campaign, he sent dedicated books to the Top 20 Fittest Senators in America 2020. Each book came with a personal note expressing gratitude to these fit Senators for their dedication to their constituents and the American people. Recently, he expanded this campaign by sending an additional 83 books, ensuring that each U.S. Senator has a copy of his book.

I'm continuing my campaign (the one I started in 2020) of sending dedicated copies of my book “ReSync Your Life” to the 2000 leading politicians, the Fortune 500 CEOs, and the heads of the 1000 largest school districts to motivate our leaders to promote healthy lifestyle in… pic.twitter.com/yqm4oKyb7S

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) August 31, 2023

As the founder of Health Fitness Revolution, Becic has a track record of conducting large-scale advocacy campaigns. He is known for his remarkable physical feats, such as running 7 marathons in 8 weeks while wearing a 73.5 lbs weighted vest to raise awareness, and living for 6 weeks with a 200 lbs weighted suit to gain a deeper understanding of obesity. These endeavors exemplify his dedication to promoting healthy living. This initiative and campaign delivers his message of wellness directly to political leaders.

Since 2020, through his Health Fitness Revolution organization and as author of “ReSYNC Your Life”, Becic has delivered over 2,000 copies of his book to politicians, Fortune 500 CEOs, and school district leaders hoping to catalyze change. He also publishes rankings of celebrities’ fitness influence (actors, musicians, comedians, chefs) in an effort reaching over 16 million people. By consistently encouraging workplace programs and policies that support public health, Becic is actively working towards transforming the nation’s health on a grand scale.

As four-time #1 Fitness Trainer in America, Becic’s mission is to engage directly with leaders and place wellness and prevention at the forefront of policy discussions. By delivering his message of wellness directly to political leaders, he hopes to inspire and motivate them to prioritize the health and fitness of their constituents. Through his unwavering commitment to advocacy, Samir Becic is making a significant impact in promoting a healthier and more active nation.

Impressive "Honestly" Podcast recording with @JamesCarville– a truly remarkable individual. I don't usually take selfies, but Bill Clinton's 1992 legendary campaign strategist warranted an exception. pic.twitter.com/hPWeO7T4gH

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 21, 2023

While at TTF, Samir met some of our generation’s top political thinkers and officials, including Presidential candidates, Governors, Senators, Congresspeople, Mayors, and other officials to discuss his aggressive campaign to promote fitness across America. Notable meetings included Governors Brian Kemp and Joe Lombardo, former Governor Larry Hogan, Senator Mark Kelly, Political Strategist James Carville, former White House Chief of Staff Karl Rove, former White House Senior Advisor David Axelrod, Congressional Representatives Colin Allred, Lloyd Doggett, Lizzie Fletcher, Ruben Gallego, Tony Gonzales, Sylvia Garcia, Greg Casar and Henry Cuellar, President Biden’s Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden, former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, and Mayors Sylvester Turner, Ron Nirenberg, Kirk Watson, Quinton Lucas, and Oscar Leeser.

I had the honor of meeting Georgia Governor @BrianKempGA, former White House Chief of Staff to George W. Bush @KarlRove, and former White House Senior Advisor to Obama/Senior Political Commentator for @CNN @davidaxelrod. pic.twitter.com/0wHSkezaja

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 22, 2023

With Nevada Governor @JoeLombardoNV. It is truly an honor to meet you, governor. As a former law enforcement officer, he believes in fitness and exercise. Thank you for your service. pic.twitter.com/mWmsVhQLdi

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2023

As founder of Health Fitness Revolution and author of the Amazon best-selling book “ReSYNC Your Life“, Samir is spearheading the largest population health movement since Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1990s initiatives as President George Bush Sr.’s “Fitness Czar”. Since 2020, he has dedicated and sent over 2,000 copies of his book to politicians, Fortune 500 CEOs, and school district leaders to motivate change. This is in addition to ranking and highlighting the 500 most influential celebrities in America (actors, musicians, comedians, chefs) on health and fitness. Through his Health Fitness Revolution organization and advocacy efforts, Samir’s message has directly reached over 16 million people across the U.S. He continues to encourage supportive policies and workplace wellness programs among American leaders.

With Houston Mayor @SylvesterTurner, my dear friend and mentor in Austin. pic.twitter.com/otgLVO36dX

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 22, 2023

Great meeting @POTUS President Biden's Domestic Policy Advisor @NeeraTanden46. She is truly remarkable! pic.twitter.com/LIBnOthywh

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 22, 2023

While at the Texas capitol, Samir continued his campaign by engaging in robust discussions about empowering all Americans through improved access to fitness resources and education.

With former U.S. Congressman @AdamKinzinger. My magazine, Health Fitness Revolution, had him on the list of “The Fittest American Politicians” every year since we started the list in 2013. It is truly an honor to meet you, Congressman! #AmericanHero pic.twitter.com/wo7bUv7MOq

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2023

With U.S. Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher ⁦⁦@RepFletcher⁩. She is remarkable! #HoustonStrong pic.twitter.com/sZyPq922mw

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2023

With U.S. Congressman Ruben Gallego @RubenGallego. He is a down-to-earth, empathetic, and remarkable human being. As a former U.S. Marine, he is a big supporter of fitness. It was an honor to meet you, congressman, and thank you for your service! #americanhero pic.twitter.com/VQUahB1kFj

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2023

The U.S. Congressman @RepColinAllred is on my list of the fittest politicians since he assumed office in 2019. What do you think? Who is fitter between him and Senator Cruz??
Thank you, Congressman Allred, for promoting a healthy lifestyle and being a great role model for… pic.twitter.com/kCffqzbTcQ

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 24, 2023

As a 4-time #1 Fitness Trainer in America and Houston’s official “Fitness Czar”, Samir is transforming public health nationwide through his advocacy work. Attendees at the Texas Tribune Festival got a first-hand look at his meaningful efforts and discussion of next steps to further promote wellness across America. Samir’s impact and message of hope through healthy living is resonating coast to coast.

With U.S. Congressman @GregCasar. He is dynamic and energetic. He is a great candidate for my 2023 list of the “Fittest Congressmambers in America.” pic.twitter.com/oOiOfekA8J

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 26, 2023

It's always good to see U.S. Congressman @RepTonyGonzales. He is a solid, down-to-earth, excellent human being. Definitely on my 2023 list of the “Fittest U.S. Congress members.” Thank you for your service! pic.twitter.com/0Pmvq4JjsZ

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2023

With U.S. Congressman @LloydDoggettTX. It is always a great pleasure to see him. He is a gentleman and scholar. We discussed the political situation in Bosnia and the Balkan region. pic.twitter.com/HaHvH2tsmx

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 25, 2023

With an extraordinary U.S. Congressman ⁦@RepCuellar. Congressman Cuellar is a genuinely remarkable and down-to-earth leader. True gentlemen show grace and uplift people around them. Thank you for being so supportive, congressman. pic.twitter.com/sQ1IdA43J5

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2023

Samir also attended last year’s Texas Tribune Festival, and all the highlights can be seen here.

With my dear friend, Mayor of San Antonio @Ron_Nirenberg. He has been on my list of “Top Fittest American Politicians” since the beginning. I nicknamed him “Gladiator Mayor.” pic.twitter.com/bfXE7lu9OZ

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 27, 2023

With Mayor of Austin @KirkPWatson. It was a great pleasure to meet the Mayor of Austin—a great conversation about Europe, particularly Germany (Koblenz) and Bosnia (Sarajevo). Confident, down-to-earth, and worldly are great attributes for a leader. pic.twitter.com/JoNjedWpxZ

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 25, 2023

With Mayor of Kansas City @MayorLucasKC. One of the most dynamic, energetic, and outgoing mayors I have ever met. You Rock, Mayor Lucas! pic.twitter.com/SuPRcvfTcw

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 26, 2023

In attendance were State Senator John Whitmire, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Houston Councilmember Robert Gallegos, Investor Gilbert Garcia, and Attorney Lee Kaplan. All demonstrated commitment to Houston’s priorities, but two stood out as uniquely strong – Senator Whitmire and Congresswoman Jackson Lee.

John Whitmire has an unmatched career in public service, having served over 41 years in the Texas State House and Senate. His deep experience and bipartisan approach have proven effective in passing impactful legislation. As the longest-serving Senator in Texas history, few know state government and the Houston region better than Whitmire.

Similarly, Sheila Jackson Lee is a trailblazing leader who has spent decades delivering results for Houstonians in her role in the U.S. House of Representatives. With leadership positions on influential committees like the Judiciary, she understands the federal policy issues critical to Houston. Her tireless advocacy has brought significant funding and attention to concerns like infrastructure and public health.

Samir Becic believes the next mayor must have both passion for Houston and a vision for the future. Of all the candidates, none compare to Senator Whitmire and Congresswoman Jackson Lee in the combination of experience, proven effectiveness, and understanding of the complex challenges facing Houston. With over 8 decades of combined leadership experience, they are undoubtedly the strongest candidates to guide Houston forward.

Also in attendance were Houston’s previous Mayor Annise Parker and Houston Fire Chief Samuel Pena.

More debate prep this morning, with my favorite sparring partner. pic.twitter.com/QM2xpfkD5k

— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) August 22, 2023

Ramaswamy’s commitment to physical fitness is evident in the videos he shares on social media platforms. Whether it’s playing tennis or doing burpees with his wife, Ramaswamy exhibits the discipline and dedication required to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is no secret that obesity rates are soaring and chronic diseases are on the rise, and he is leading by example, and encouraging a healthier nation. Physical fitness is not just about achieving a toned physique; it is also a powerful tool for mental resilience. Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves cognitive function. By emphasizing the mental benefits of fitness, Ramaswamy recognizes the significance of a healthy mind in the pursuit of one’s goals.

It's great to see Presidential hopefuls in top fit shape ahead of tonight's Republican Debate. Good job @VivekGRamaswamy on motivating Americans to embrace healthy living!

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) August 23, 2023

In a highly polarized political landscape, Vivek Ramaswamy’s focus on fitness reminds us of the importance of a balanced approach to life. While his political aspirations are significant, he recognizes the value of self-care and personal well-being. By sharing his fitness regimen openly, Ramaswamy encourages Americans to find their own balance between work, politics, and physical health.

The Srebrenica genocide is considered one of the worst atrocities in Europe since World War II. It occurred during the Bosnian War, which lasted from 1992 to 1995. But what made it even more horrific was the forcible transfer and abuse of between 25,000 and 30,000 Bosniak women, children, and elderly that accompanied the massacre. To this day, their families still grieve their loss. 

In 2007, the International Court of Justice in The Hague ruled that the massacre and the accompanying atrocities constituted genocide. But the scars of the war and the genocide are still fresh. Bosnia is a country struggling to heal and unite its people in the aftermath of the destruction. Ethnic cleansing, rape, destruction, concentration camps, and mass killings became the norm, leaving over 100,000 people dead and 2.2 million displaced.

As a result of the war in Bosnia, and the subsequent genocide, Bosnia, its core values, and everything that its people stood for were destroyed.

The Honorable Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz of Toledo, Ohio, has granted Samir’s request in proclaiming Jul 11, 2023, as Bosnia-Herzegovina Day in Toledo in remembrance of the Srebrenica genocide. Samir is humbled by the powerful gesture and thankful “On behalf of Bosnian-Americans, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the City of Toledo and the honorable Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz for granting my request for Bosnia and Herzegovina Day.”

Samir was deeply affected by the Srebrenica genocide, a mass killing of over 8,000 Bosniak (Bosnian) men and boys by Bosnian Serb forces in July 1995. His own hometown of Kljuc was one of the locations also hit by Serbian forces, where 784 victims were killed (and 34 victims are still unaccounted for), including his family members, his neighbors, and his school friends. From one day to the next, they vanished. Having personally experienced the horrors and loss of the Bosnian War, Samir realized that many people in America are not aware of this tragic event and its significance.

Determined to change that, Samir’s campaign urges American Mayors to raise awareness about the genocide and honor the memory of the victims. His efforts to educate these mayors about the Srebrenica genocide demonstrate the power of individual action.

Samir’s personal experience with war and displacement inspired him to help others and promote peace, fueling his career in health and fitness. And now, his outreach to the mayors of major cities in America is an inspiring example of how one person can make a difference.

It is essential to educate people about the Srebrenica genocide to promote understanding, tolerance, and peace. By learning about the past, we can work towards a better future.

Samir’s mission highlights the importance of remembering history and promoting tolerance and peace. His outreach to the mayors of the largest cities in America is an inspiring example of how to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem.

Let’s honor the memory of the victims of the Srebrenica genocide and ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

But it’s not just his energetic presence that’s catching people’s attention. Durakovic works tirelessly to build bridges between different ethnic and religious groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He leaves the impression that he is a politician who cares not only about his voters but also all the people in the entity Republika Srpska regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation. His vision for a better future is one that’s based on cooperation and collaboration, not divisiveness.

Durakovic has a strong background in politics. He’s earned widespread support from all sides, thanks to his independent spirit and his work ethic. In fact, he was elected Mayor of Srebrenica in 2012 with the support of all pro-Bosnian parties, a testament to his ability to bring people together.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Fast forward to 2020, and Durakovic was elected as a member of the Srebrenica Municipal Assembly. And from April to September 2021, he served as the Speaker of the Srebrenica Municipal Assembly, continuing to make a positive impact on the local community. But Durakovic’s ambitions extended beyond Srebrenica. In 2022, he was elected Vice President of the Republic of Srpska, a remarkable achievement for an independent candidate without the support of any party in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It’s clear that Durakovic is a breath of fresh air in Bosnian politics. Another aspect that really sets him apart is his commitment to living a healthy lifestyle. He understands that to be an effective leader, you need to take care of yourself first. And he walks the walk, making time for exercise, practice Tae Kwon Do, and healthy eating despite his incredibly busy schedule.

In 2015, when Becic attended the 20th anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre with Bill Clinton, he had the honor of being hosted by Durakovic, who was mayor of Srebrenica at the time.

It’s clear that with politicians like Camil Durakovic in leadership positions, Bosnia and Herzegovina has a better future based on building bridges between different ethnic and religious groups and improving the overall economy of the country.

Washington D.C.’s Mayor Muriel Bowser wrote in her proclamation: “Whereas, the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina voted for independence on March 1, 1992, and March 1 is now recognized as Bosnia and Herzegovina’s day of independence, and whereas, this sovereign nation in Europe’s western Balkan Peninsula is comprised of many religions, ethnicities, and traditions and is devoted to observing fundamental multiethnic principles, and whereas, the Bosnian American community has enriched the Washington, DC, region with its art, culture, cuisine, commitment to education, and business development, and whereas, Bosnian Americans and residents of our nation’s capital have a shared commitment to the cherished values of democracy and self-determination.”

Health Fitness Revolution founder Samir Becic recognizes One BiH‘s valuable advocacy in promoting Bosnia and Herzegovina in the U.S. by helping actualize this proclamation. “I am glad to see that Bosnian Herzegovinan communities in the United States and around the world are doing immensely important work in strengthening BiH’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Big news! March 1st was also recognized as Bosnian-American Day in Washington, DC! Thank you to @MayorBowser for the Proclamation. pic.twitter.com/y6r4PIU3QY

— One BiH (@JednaBiH) March 3, 2023

Samir Becic also previously named Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser among the Top 25 Fittest Mayors in America in 2018. As a Bosnian American, Samir is very thankful to Mayor Bowser for proclaiming March 1st as Bosnian-American Day in D.C. “As we commemorate the 31st anniversary of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s (BiH) Declaration of Independence in 2023, it is important to take a moment to thank the United States for their unwavering support throughout Bosnia’s journey to freedom. America is Bosnia’s closest ally.”

Sarajevo’s Mayor Benjamina Karić visited with Mayor Bowser in D.C. in February and shared this:

U februaru ove godine sam se sastala sa gradonačelnicom Vašingtona, @MurielBowser.

Danas iz Vašingtona stiže sjajna vijest, gradonačelnica Bowser proglasila je 1. Mart, Dan nezavisnosti Bosne i Hercegovine, Danom bosansko-američkog prijateljstva.

Hvala gradonačelnice! pic.twitter.com/0d1S2FxhA5

— Benjamina Karić (@BenjaminaKaric) March 3, 2023

Mr. Pronin gave a welcome speech that introduced the event’s esteemed attendees including Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the new Harris County Judge for Precinct 4 Lesley Briones, Harris County Treasurer-elect Carla Wyatt, Harris County District Clerk Marilyn Burgess Houston’s Official Fitness Czar Samir Becic, State Representative Ron Reynolds, Judge Richard Hightower, Judge Robert Johnson among many others.

History! https://t.co/8zzwszR1pp

— Art Pronin (@aspronin) December 20, 2022

Art Pronin has presided over Meyerland Democrats since 2011 and is credited with growing the organization to what it is today- the largest such neighborhood Democratic Party organization in Texas. Speakers have included: Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker, Congressman Beto O’Rourke, Congressman Castro, Congressman Al Green, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, Mayor Sylvester Turner, as well as many State Representatives and Senators.
The Meyerland Democrats organization is noted for having the highest turnout precincts in the state. Their GOTV programs in 2016 and 2018 prevented key swing precincts from flipping to the GOP ticket and expanded more precincts to carrying the ticket.

Our @MeyerDems president @aspronin sure is a happy warrior as seen Monday night! pic.twitter.com/r0oZm9QWvL

— Meyerland Area Dems YOU BETTER VOTE (@MeyerDems) December 21, 2022

Samir commented on how incredible of a community leader Art Pronin is. He has a natural gift of bringing people together and creating a positive and joyful experience; evidenced by the success of the holiday party. As Houston’s Fitness Czar, Samir also noted appreciated the lean chicken and avocado as part of the menu for guests

Great time at @MeyerDems Holiday Party wonderfully organized by @aspronin. Art, you have a natural gift of bringing people together and creating a positive and joyful experience. pic.twitter.com/VVHihwiu8u

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) December 20, 2022

Following his address, TSU awarded Mayor Turner an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters in recognition of his outstanding efforts to serve the community.

TSU President Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young commended Turner on his tireless work at bettering the community “Mayor Turner has demonstrated his commitment to transforming the lives of the citizens of Houston, as well as those in Texas, and throughout the nation. The new ways in which the city is partnering with TSU demonstrate that commitment in a way that we know will benefit our communities for years to come. It was our pleasure to recognize his outstanding achievements during commencement by bestowing upon him the Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters Degree.”

The degree was presented by former U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Rod Paige.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sylvester Turner (@sylvesterturner)

The two incredible programs that Mayor Turner announced include:

A new proposal to have Texas Southern University lead educational efforts at the new Houston Spaceport at Ellington airport is poised to send the University’s Aviation Science Management program into orbit. The new partnership would include building a 30,000-square-foot educational building with state-of-the-art classrooms and labs, a 30,000-square-foot hangar that would house 15 new TSU training aircraft, and a 10,000-square-foot hangar for drone and vertical takeoff and landing education, research, and more.

If you missed @TexasSouthern‘s commencement speech by Mayor @SylvesterTurner, you also may not have heard about two major partnerships that the university will be entering with the City of @HoustonTX.

For more details, see the full article in the Defender.

— Defender Network (@defendernetwork) December 15, 2022

Mayor Turner also announced that Houston is contributing more than $1 million toward the creation of a new TSU/Houston Center for Transformative Health. This new partnership between Texas Southern University and the city’s Health Department will focus on decreasing health disparities and inequities among underserved populations by supporting critical areas such as expertise, capacity building, training service, research, and more. This initiative also aligns with Mayor Turner’s Office of Complete Communities and complements the City’s efforts through the HER Task Force to support these targeted neighborhoods.

Here is some of Mayor Turner’s incredible work that we’ve highlighted over the years:

Samir had the opportunity to talk about his work, gift Senator Hutchison a dedicated copy of his book “ReSync Your Life” as well as discuss the current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Balkan region in general. Samir also got to hear some great stories from Kay’s time in politics and diplomacy during the panel “The New World Disorder” where she shared the stage with U.S. Representative Michael McCaul to discuss alliances, adversaries, and anxieties in politics!

“Meeting Kay Baily Hutchison was a great honor. In addition to her influence as a Senator, her work as a U.S. Ambassador to NATO helped shaped the current global diplomacy. The United States is fortunate to have such an accomplished public servant representing this country for 4 decades” remarked Samir after his meeting.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Samir Becic is a fitness guru who has made it his life’s mission to help others realize their potential and achieve success through a healthy lifestyle. His work in recent years has been expansive, impactful, and inspiring.

The world-renowned health and fitness expert is the founder of Health Fitness Revolution, 4 x #1 Fitness Trainer in America, and Houston’s Official “Fitness Czar” as proclaimed by Mayor Sylvester Turner. He has made it his goal to empower people to get more active and educate themselves about health.

While at the Texas capitol, Samir gifted each politician a dedicated copy of his health and fitness book, “ReSync Your Life”, to encourage and inspire the lawmakers to keep motivating Americans to live healthier and fitter and vote on legislation that positively impacts public health. He had a great time speaking with the members of Congress about the importance of improving public health for all Americans- he even got several to record video messages aimed at motivating American youth to get active!

Samir Becic is a renowned health and fitness expert who has made it his life’s mission to help others realize their potential and achieve success through a healthy lifestyle. He is the founder of Health Fitness Revolution, 4 x #1 Fitness Trainer in America, and Houston’s Official “Fitness Czar” as proclaimed by Mayor Sylvester Turner. He is an advocate for many causes including fitness and has made it his goal to empower people to get more active and educate themselves about health. His work in recent years has been expansive, impactful, and inspiring. 

Samir’s book, “ReSync Your Life”, offers a simple plan that anyone can follow to make lasting changes in their lives. It provides clear instructions on how to change your diet, exercise routine, and mindset so that you can truly transform yourself into a healthy person who will live longer and happier than ever before!

Why are U.S. representatives so important when it comes to public health?

Public health is a huge issue in the United States, and it’s a topic that Samir is passionate about. One of the reasons why public health is so important is because it impacts everything from what children eat in schools to climate change to affordable healthcare. The problem is that many people do not know what exactly public health is, or how it impacts their lives.

U.S. representatives are crucial to public health because they are the ones making the laws that affect our lives. They have the power to pass bills that promote healthy lifestyles, such as those that encourage people to eat more fruits and vegetables, or those that help people get access to medication. They can also pass bills that negatively impact public health, such as those that subsidize fast food companies and soda companies, or those that cut funding for health and wellness programs.

Many of us aren’t sure how our representatives are connected to public health—and if they are, we don’t understand how they can help us as individuals make positive changes on these issues in our daily lives. While it’s difficult to understand all of the nuances of legislation and policy-making, there are some things you can do to stay informed and involved: one way is by contacting your representatives directly! This is precisely why Samir sent books to 2000 American politicians and has been ranking our political leaders (Heads of State, Politicians in America, Governors, Senators, U.S. Representatives, and Mayors) since 2014. Every year, he uses his Health Fitness Revolution magazine to recognize politicians who choose to demonstrate healthy lifestyles for themselves, in addition to promoting physical activity within their communities.

Samir is at the forefront of fitness in politics, and his previous lists of the fittest politicians have generated buzz in some of the nation’s leading media outlets. From the New York Times, to the LA Times, to the Houston Chronicle, Refinery29, Washington Post, and so on… Politico dubbed the list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators 2016 their “List du Jour”, they also mentioned our Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 list.

Here are U.S. Congressmembers that Samir met in Austin:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Jamie Raskin is an American attorney and has been serving as the U.S. representative for Maryland’s 8th congressional district since 2017. Samir gifted him a copy of his book and a limited-edition coffee table book called “Bosna i Hercegovina Ocima Ljubavi” (which translates to “Bosnia and Herzegovina Through Eyes of Love”) that highlights the natural beauty of Bosnia.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Lloyd Doggett is an attorney and he has represented a district based in Austin since 1995, currently numbered as Texas’s 35th congressional district.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Dan Crenshaw is a former United States Navy SEAL officer serving as the United States representative for Texas’s 2nd congressional district since 2019. He made out lists of the Top 40 Fittest U.S. Representatives 2020 and Top 20 Fittest Politicians in American 2020.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Henry Cuellar is an American attorney and has served as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 28th congressional district since 2005.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Colin Allred is an American politician, lawyer, and former professional football player. He is the U.S. representative from Texas’s 32nd congressional district since 2019. He also made our list of Top 40 Fittest U.S. Representatives 2020.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Sylvia Garcia is an American lawyer and has been serving as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 29th congressional district since 2019.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

 Veronica Escobar has been serving as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 16th congressional district, based in El Paso, since 2019.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Michael McCaul is an American attorney and has been serving as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 10th congressional district since 2005.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Tony Gonzales is a United States Navy veteran who has served as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 23rd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives since 2021.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

Mayra Flores represents Texas’s 34th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives since 2022.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samir Becic (@samirbecic)

William Hurd is a former CIA clandestine officer who served as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 23rd congressional district from 2015 to 2021. The district stretched approximately 550 miles from San Antonio to El Paso along the U.S.-Mexican border. 

The event, held in the iconic Paramount Theatre, saw the two political strategists discuss the current state of politics in America. Mr. Rove and Mr. Gibbs had many insightful thoughts on what they predict is going to happen during the impending mid-term elections. After hearing about their past experiences in politics, Samir noted how refreshing it was to “see individuals on opposite sides of the political spectrum have a debate about important topics while remaining civil, fact-based, and respectful.” Samir continued “This is the America that I love.”

Following the riveting discussion, Samir was able to get some one-on-one time with both Karl Rove and Robert Gibbs to talk about the escalating political situation in his home country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. During this time, he presented each with a copy of his health and fitness book “ReSync Your Life.” Each was grateful and gracious when being presented with the gift from Samir.

I truly enjoyed the panel moderated by Texas Tribune CEO Evan Smith with the former White House Press Secretary under the President Obama administration, Robert Gibbs and Karl Rove, Senior Advisor and former Deputy Chief of Staff to President George W. Bush. pic.twitter.com/JpA5DN2ZbB

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 28, 2022

This is the America that I love. I am also thankful that I was able to have a little chat with them about the challenges facing Bosnia and Herzegovina

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 28, 2022

Samir, Houston’s Official “Fitness Czar”, 4 x #1 Fitness Trainer in America, and a tireless advocate for public health and fitness, was invited to attend the Texas Tribune Festival as a health and fitness media advocate. His work in recent years has been expansive, impactful, and inspiring. He has spearheaded dozens of campaigns on the national and international levels. One of his over-arching campaigns involved sending 2000 dedicated and signed books of his HarperCollins published “ReSync Your Life” to U.S. political leaders in an effort to inspire them to keep motivating Americans to live healthier and fitter and vote on legislation that positively impacts public health.

Samir’s experience in the field of fitness has made him one of the most sought-after experts in the world! He works tirelessly to ensure that people are aware of the threats posed by obesity and the chronic illnesses associated with it so that people can take action by making small changes in their lives. Simply exercising more often or eating healthier foods will improve the overall quality of life for most Americans.

Samir’s book, “ReSync Your Life”, offers a simple plan that anyone can follow to make lasting changes in their lives. It provides clear instructions on how to change your diet, exercise routine, and mindset so that you can truly transform yourself into a healthy person who will live longer and happier than ever before!

Samir is a tireless advocate for public health and fitness and his work in recent years has been expansive and impactful. He has spearheaded dozens of campaigns on the national and international levels. One of his over-arching campaigns involved sending 2000 dedicated and signed books of his HarperCollins published “ReSync Your Life” to U.S. political leaders in an effort to inspire them to keep motivating Americans to live healthier and fitter and vote on legislation that positively impacts public health.

Samir, as a Bosnian-American, presented Governor Kasich with a limited-edition coffee table book called “Bosna i Hercegovina Ocima Ljubavi” (which translates to “Bosnia and Herzegovina Through Eyes of Love”) that highlights the natural beauty of Bosnia. The former Governor was honored to accept this gift and thanked Samir for his service to the community. Interesting fact: both Gov. Kasich and Samir have Balkan heritage! The meeting was a great opportunity for Samir to meet a fellow Balkan who has made such an impact on the American political scene. The two men enjoyed talking about their roots. After the talk, Kasich suggested they should keep in touch and Samir is looking forward to collaborating on potential health advocacy.

John Richard Kasich Jr. is an American politician, author, and television news host who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1983 to 2001 and as the 69th governor of Ohio from 2011 to 2019. A Republican, Kasich ran for the party’s Presidential nomination in 2000 and 2016 against Donald Trump.

Here is what Samir had to say about this meeting: “It was an honor to meet John Kasich, with whom I share Balkan heritage. I respect and support his advocacy for mental health”.

To say that Evan Smith is a busy man is an understatement. The CEO and editor-in-chief of the Texas Tribune has made it his mission to bring people together and build better communities through the power of conversation. And in the process, he’s built one of the most innovative and successful non-profit news outlets in America. He’s also a highly sought-after interviewer who travels the country talking to interesting people, and he brings those interviews to Texans through a series of live events throughout the year.

A fantastic interview was conducted by @evanasmit @TexasTribune, with the Secretary of Transportation @PeteButtigieg. An hour of non-stop thoughtful and analytical action filled with reason, intellectual humor, turbulent emotions about the future, and positivity that gives hope. pic.twitter.com/FrwCsQuS1B

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2022

Just off the heels of another successful TribFest (which our founder Samir Becic got invited to attend), Evan Smith moderated numerous panels that made national news. Texas Tribune’s signature annual TribFest event is three days packed with expert panels and insightful discussions on everything from education to health care and more. This year, there were more than 350 influential speakers, including former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy; Governors Gavin Newsom of California, Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas, Glenn Youngkin of Virginia; Former Governor of Ohio John Kasich, and Democratic Candidate for Governor of Texas in 2022 Beto O’Rourke.

Evan Smith’s bio is nothing short of impressive, he is the CEO and co-founder of The Texas Tribune, a pioneering nonprofit, nonpartisan digital news organization whose deep coverage of Texas politics and public policy can be found at its website, texastribune.org, in newspapers and on TV and radio stations across the state, and in the print and online editions of the Washington Post. Since its launch in 2009, the Tribune has won international acclaim and numerous honors including a Peabody Award, 13 national Edward R. Murrow Awards from the Radio Television Digital News Association, and three general excellence awards from the Online News Association.

Smith also hosts “Overheard with Evan Smith,” an award-winning weekly half-hour interview program that airs on PBS stations around the country. Previously he spent nearly 18 years at Texas Monthly, including eight years as the magazine’s editor and a year as its president and editor-in-chief.

As official Fitness Czar for the City of Houston as proclaimed by Mayor @SylvesterTurner I just proclaimed the trailblazing CEO of @TexasTribune @evanasmith not a day over 45 years old! I told him not to retire until the age of 100 because TX and American need people like him. pic.twitter.com/r1AsxGaVre

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 24, 2022

HFR founder and Houston’s Official “Fitness Czar” Samir Becic recognizes how fortunate Texas is to have such a reasoned and intellectual voice at the helm of one of its major publications- he also proclaimed a trailblazing Smith as not a day over 45! Samir was equally impressed with the streamlined organization of the entire TribFest event “Texas Tribune’s #TribFest22 is superbly organized. The number of details that it takes to manage such a complex enterprise is infinite (metaphorically speaking). Great job, CEO Evan Smith and the Texas Tribune team on presenting TX in the best light. Evan, you can retire at the age of 100!”

The @TexasTribune #TribFest22 is superbly organized. The number of details that it takes to manage such a complex enterprise is infinite (metaphorically speaking). Great job, CEO @evanasmith and T.T. team on presenting TX in the best light. Evan, you can retire at the age of 100!

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) September 23, 2022

In her written response to Samir Becic, Senator Campbell states that she appreciates all the efforts that Samir has taken in his fight against obesity. She continues “Not only do I support and admire all of your work, but I will do my best to promote healthier lifestyles on my social media and look into possible legislation in the upcoming session!” Sharing more of her healthy living shouldn’t be a stretch for Senator Campbell, as we know that she’s an avid hiker and runner, and enjoys being active with her 4 daughters!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Senator Donna Campbell M.D. (@donnacampbelltx)

A significant part of healthy living is not only caring for yourself but also others. Science shows that helping others is beneficial to your mental and physical health. Putting other people’s needs before our own can reduce stress and improve mood, self-esteem, and happiness. Prior to joining the Texas legislature, Dr. Donna Campbell had a successful career as an ophthalmologist. She used her skillset, generosity, and heart for others to perform hundreds of eye surgeries in the West African nation of Ghana.

Over 30 years ago, I performed hundreds of eye surgeries with the Christian Eye Ministry in Ghana.
Those moments made me realize that I was serving a purpose bigger than myself.

God bless our doctors and thank you for answering your individual calls to serve humanity! pic.twitter.com/36S7uJpZcQ

— Donna Campbell (@DonnaCampbellTX) March 30, 2022

Samir Becic (the same guy who has gone to some extreme lengths to motivate others to be healthy and authored the HarperCollins book ReSYNC Your Life) has reached out to all 36 U.S. Congressmembers from Texas to request meetings with them. He’s done so in an effort to promote a healthy lifestyle in Texas, which frequently makes America’s “fattest states” list.

Samir is asking to meet with each of the Texas United States Representatives as a way to motivate their constituents. He hopes that together, they can send a strong message at the launch of the new year, one that proves that small, actionable changes can lead to better health. A healthy lifestyle can help build a robust immune system and prepare the body to be stronger in the event that COVID-19 (or any other virus) is contracted. Studies have shown that while a healthy immune system won’t stop you from contracting a virus, it will be better equipped to fight the infections with a sustained immune response.

Samir has long been a proponent of the overlap between health and politics. He truly believes political leaders can be one of the building blocks toward attaining a healthy lifestyle in mainstream America.  Their influence in making the laws and their presence is imperative toward exciting the masses into changing their nutrition for the better and being more physically active. At the end of the day, politicians have direct access and say into the policies that affect American’s daily lives, they can choose to use their platforms to improve America’s culture with regards to wellness.

In April of this year, Samir sent dedicated copies of his book “ReSync Your Life”, to each of the 36 U.S. Congressmembers from Texas.  In each book, he inscribed a personal note to our political leaders thanking them for their dedication to Texans/Americans during the unprecedented year we’ve all had with the COVID-19 pandemic.

As 2021 comes to a close and we embark on a New Year, the HFR team hopes that our readers (and Americans) are happy, healthy, vaccinated (possibly even boosted), exercising, and eating right… because, at the end of the day, health is wealth!

Below is a text that I wrote in January 2021 because I was concerned about America and its future. I sent it to a few newspapers but it was never published. This is why I am publishing it now, on my Health Fitness Revolution Magazine. This time, it’s because I’m concerned about Bosnia and Herzegovina and history repeating itself. I’m trying to stop a repeat of the bloodshed that caused hundreds of thousands of lives lost in 1992, a million refugees, tens of thousands of women raped and innocent children killed that culminated with the genocide in Srebrenica.

By Samir Becic on January 11, 2021:

In the early 1990s, as Yugoslavia’s notion of brotherhood and unity started to collapse and war was on the brink, my father packed a suitcase and took my sister and me to Croatia.

But my mother refused to leave. She, like many other people, thought that violence and turmoil would soon pass; that there is no way war was a possibility; that women would not be raped and concentration camps would not be built. But the warning signs were obvious. It’s incredible how the mind can block out what it doesn’t want to deal with. And eventually my family lost everything it had in Bosnia.

Now, as an American citizen enjoying freedom in Houston for the past 21 years, as someone who loves this country and believes in its people and its democracy, I am concerned that this nation is failing to recognize trends that haunt me from my childhood in Bosnia, the land of my birth.

A friend recently said to me, “You cannot compare (former Serbia president Slobodan) Milosević to President Trump.” Maybe not, or maybe my friend does not have the firsthand experience I do. Maybe he, like my mom, believes an internal war is not possible in the US. I hope he is right and I pray that he is. But we cannot ignore the similarities that Trump and Milosević share — a nationalistic agenda, populist tendencies, disregard for facts, emboldening a post-truth world, and promoting conflict with divisive rhetoric. 

I urge my fellow Americans to heed the warning signs and protect American democracy and peace with everything you have.

Because of the possibilities that America offers, I was able to rebuild my life. I have traveled all over the world. I’ve lived in Germany, which has the largest European economy). But nothing compares to the land of the free, the USA. Having lost one home, I’m ready to fight with everything I have to protect democracy and freedom. America is a beacon of light for humanity. Americans — Democrats, Republicans, independents — must make sure we keep it that way. 

There are many reasons why Yugoslavia slid into genocide, but I believe the main reason was lack of dialogue as a society — a willingness to engage in exchanges and resolve problems that arise from clashing thoughts. It is a fact that the Yugoslavian leaders did not understand the power of it. 

As a result, Bosnia, its core values, and everything that its people stood for, was destroyed. Ethnic cleansing, rape, destruction, concentration camps, and mass killings became the norm from 1992 to 1995. Over 100,000 people were killed and 2.2 million displaced. Bosnia is still struggling to heal and to unite its people in the aftermath of the destruction. 

While many Yugoslavian leaders have been tried and sentenced to life in prison at the Hague Tribunal for the atrocious war crimes and genocide committed, I can’t help but wonder — what would have happened if they had been stopped in a timely manner? How many thousands of lives could have been spared? Maybe 250 of my relatives, friends, and neighbors would still be alive today.

It broke my heart to see my mom stay behind because families should not be separated. Many months later, I was able to reunite with her in Croatia- a luxury many Bosnian children never had.

America is a beacon of light for humanity. For its children and their families, we must work every day to denounce any effort from any political corner to divide us against each other. Otherwise, the blood of civil war could be on the hands of all who survive it.

This year, the list was particularly important because as the world has grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12 months, health has been at the forefront of the news. 

Now, more than ever, we are realizing that we have to emphasize our personal wellbeing through exercise and healthy nutrition. These simple yet profound lifestyle changes can help build our immune systems to better handle whatever viruses and bacteria the future has in store. 

These leaders continue to demonstrate to their country that no matter how frenzied life can get, fitness and health should always be a priority. Since our inaugural list in 2014, we’ve published an updated “Top 10” annually including 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 11 heads of state that make our 2021 list are not only pioneers as global ambassadors, but they are also leaders outside of the office when they are competing in sports, simply biking with their family or being pioneers in being able to curb the pandemic in their countries.

“The ‘Fittest Heads of State’ list was started to promote global fitness,” says Health Fitness Revolution founder  Samir Becic, who has 20 years of expertise in the fitness industry and was named No. 1 fitness trainer in the world for BTF and appointed “Fitness Czar” for the City of Houston. “This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more apparent that we need to build our immune systems through healthy lifestyle changes in order to make it robust for any future and unpredictable pandemics. We know now that next to social distancing, wearing a mask, washing our hands, and vaccinations, building our immune systems through healthy living is necessary- maybe even critical for our survival as a species.”

In no particular order, the following world leaders have become healthy role models for their citizens. From accomplished athletes to recreational weekend warriors, nutrition enthusiasts to nutrition policymakers, these heads of state are doing their part to lead by example in the quest for a stronger, healthier global community. It is important to note that although we found leaders who we knew were fit but because we were unable to find any accessible data on their routines, they were ineligible for this list. Samir adds to all world leaders “please share your healthy lifestyle habits!”

 Criteria for the Fittest Heads of State:

1. For each country, the first and second in charge are eligible for the list. For example: Canada and New Zealand have their Prime Ministers on this list even though their respective monarch Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state. The same goes for the United States, both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris qualify for this list.
2. Have to be healthy and fit personally.
3. Should promote a healthy lifestyle globally.
4. Physical fitness relative to age has been taken into substantial consideration.

New to the list:

President Joe Biden- United States of America

BREAKING: President-elect Joe Biden takes the stage in Wilmington, Delaware, to address the nation. https://t.co/eJ4LLajSB6 pic.twitter.com/fQTOBOKjt7

— ABC News (@ABC) November 8, 2020

• Made our Top Fittest Heads of States, Top 100 Fittest U.S. Politicians, and Fitness Report Card for the 2016 Presidential Hopefuls lists.
• Joe Biden, at 78, is the picture of health and fitness and a phenomenal example to fellow Americans.
• While in office, he made sure to stay fit by using the Senate gym daily.
• Bikes outdoors.
• He owns and uses an at-home Peloton spin bike daily for his cardio.
• Runs.
• Lifts weights 4-5 times a week with an extra focus on core exercises.
• Excelled in various sports in his youth.
• Was a high school football star.
• Played baseball as a child.
• During debates, Vice President Joe Biden announced he would put $50 billion towards obesity and diabetes.
• At his celebratory speech, he jogged up to the stage, a picture of health!
• Samir Becic: “Mr. President, as an athlete, I hope I’m as fit as you at your age!”

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern- New Zealand

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern)

• Has successfully eradicated COVID-19 in New Zealand, people can live their normal lives, workout, see family etc.
• Ardern has said she used to be a keen runner while living in London.
• Loved walking briskly to relieve stress while on the campaign trail- and did it a lot.
• Since becoming a mom, has said she misses running and walking as much but dances with her daughter to get moving. “When you’ve got a little one, that time out for those exercises gets that much harder – so instead, now, Neve loves to dance. So in the morning, and often before she goes to bed she’ll say ‘I want to dance’, and so we’ll put on some really bad children’s music – we’ll ruin Clark’s Spotify algorithms – and we’ll play something to dance to.”
• In September 2020, Jacinda Ardern backed  World United, the campaign will promote the importance of exercise to physical and mental health and is aimed at helping the global fitness industry reactivate paused members and attract new ones. Ardern said “We are facing a major health challenge, but as we come out of this, exercise will have a vital part to play in uniting us, and keeping us both mentally and physically well.”
• Wrote a meditation for SpiritofLife in May 2020.
• Aims to bring kindness back to politics.
• Supports a wellness budget for the country.
• Samir Becic: “Prime Minister, I cannot express how honored I am to include you on this list. Not only did you manage Covid-19 better than most leaders in the world, you are also a health role model, which adds to your greatness.”

President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson- Iceland

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Guðni Th. 2016 (@gudnith2016)

• Is a half marathon runner
• In 2018, According to the Icelandic Athletic Federation, this will be the 14th year in a row that the president participates in a half marathon in Reykjavík and the 16th time he participates in the event.
• According to mbl.is, Guðni’s record time in a half marathon in the Reykjavík Marathon was in 2014, when he completed the distance in 1:39:58, but most of the time, he has run the distance in between 1:40 and two hours.
• The 2020 marathon was cancelled due to COVID, so he and his wife participated in the Reykjavic Relays held in its place
• He told reporters he tries to exercise every other or every three days, but confessed he followed no carefully planned schedule. “My exercise has been jogging, football with friends, and I’m not particularly organized; I don’t follow any program, but just find the time, lace up my running shoes, and decide to run into the blue. I enjoy this very much.”
• Guðni is pleased how many running trails there are in the capital area. He likes to listen to music while running, but also appreciates the silence. Sometimes, he practices multi-tasking and pushes one of his kids in a stroller while running.
• “I frequently get very good ideas, I think, while running, for example points for speeches, articles and such. So the first thing I often do when I come home is to rush to find a pen and paper to jot things down, so I won’t forget all the ideas I got while running.”
• Samir Becic: “Mr. President, keep motivating Icelanders with your healthy lifestyle! With your inclusion on this list, I hope you will inspire people globally.”

Vice President Kamala Harris- United States of America

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kamala Harris (@kamalaharris)

• The California senator is known for her daily morning workouts, eating a balanced Mediterranean diet, exercising with her husband on Sundays, and doing SoulCycle spin classes regularly.
• Harris famous said in a 2015 interview: “In order to find balance, I feel very strongly about two things in particular in terms of routine. Work out, and eat well. I can’t say how many women I’ve mentored in college. I say, “Are you working out every morning?” No. Then I say, “You’ve got to work out.” It has nothing to do with your weight. It’s about your mind. I work out every morning. Only half an hour. I get on the treadmill. That’s it. Every morning, I don’t care what time. It gets your blood flowing. It gets your adrenaline flowing. I believe in eating well. It’s not fanatical. Eat good food. Make sure you’ve got good vegetables.”
• Plans on implementing a universal healthcare program that will provide standard, quality healthcare to every citizen regardless of their wealth.
• Wants to expand drug coverage under Medicare.
• Made our Top 10 Fittest Senators 2017 and Fittest Senators 2020 list.
• Plans to expand Medicare to everyone.
• Works out with her husband Doug on Sundays.
• “I work out every morning, regardless of how much sleep I’ve had” Harris has said.
• “I had liter water bottles that I filled, of course, with water to use them as hand weights,”
• 30 minutes on the elliptical or treadmill, or swimming
• If she has time on the weekends, she will take an hour-long Soul Survivor class at SoulCycle.
• Follows the Mediterranean Diet.
• Enjoys swimming.
• Samir Becic: “Vice President Harris, I’m honored to be able to include such an inspirational role model on this year’s list! Keep motivating Americans to get active.”

Heads of State with Previous Appearances on the list:

President Emmanuel Macron, France

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Emmanuel Macron (@emmanuelmacron) on Sep 5, 2019 at 9:07am PDT

• Macron enjoys playing tennis.
• According to his coach Patrice Kuchna (a former professional tennis player), Macron is an accomplished, agile athlete who enjoys training and improving.
• The paparazzi frequently snap him going on bike rides with his wife and kids.
• President Macron is also an avid football (soccer) player, previously licensed by the French Federation of Football while at University.
• Enjoys running.
• Goes skiing seasonally in the Alps and Pyrenees.
• He has been featured on our Fittest Heads of State in the World 2018 List and 2019 list.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Canada

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Justin Trudeau (@justinpjtrudeau)

• As busy as Trudeau is as prime minister, he makes time to be active.
• During his campaign, he worked out and trained every day.
• He is so passionate about boxing that he reached the top of the 853-meter Grouse Grind 36 minutes faster than the average 90-minute strive that most people achieve. He believes that “boxing is as much about receiving hits as giving them.”
• Trudeau also likes to exercise outside- he snowboards and canoes.
• He’s also been known to practice yoga – even during cabinet meetings!
• Trudeau does it all: he promoted the 2016 Invictus Games, and challenged Barack and Michelle Obama and the Kensington Palace to “bring it.”
• He also ran a morning 5k with members of the Canadian Royal Navy just this last March.
• Trudeau was featured on our Fittest Heads of 2016, The Fittest Heads of State 2017, Fittest Heads of State 2018, Fittest Heads of State 2019, and Top 10 Fittest Canadian Celebrities.

King Felipe VI, Spain

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Felipe VI (@kingfelipevi)

• King Felipe VI is a graduate of two military schools and one Air Force academy.
• He is a sports enthusiast and was a member of the 1992 Olympic Sailing team in Barcelona.
• He participated as Spain’s flag bearer in the Parade of the Nations during the opening ceremony, where he came in sixth place and was awarded an Olympic Diploma.
• He has been featured on our 2015 Fittest Heads of State, 2016 Fittest Heads of State, 2017 Fittest Heads of State and 2018 Fittest Heads of State in the World, Top 10 Fittest Male Royalty in the World, Fittest European Royals, and Top 50 Fittest Royals in the World and Fittest Heads of State 2019.

Grand Duke Henri, Luxembourg

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Grand Ducal Family (@royalsofluxembourg) on Sep 16, 2019 at 1:07pm PDT

• Luxembourg’s Grand Duke Henri is one of the world’s fittest heads of state.
• Involved in many health and fitness organizations, among them being the International Olympic Committee and a member of the World Health Organization’s Mentor Foundation.
• To aid Henri with his genetic maladies, he makes sure to live a healthy lifestyle filled with plenty of exercise.
• Henri was featured on our Fittest Heads of State 2018, The Fittest Heads of State 2017, Top 13 Fittest Heads of State 2016, Top 13 Fittest Heads of State 2015, 2014 List of Fittest Heads of State, Fittest European Royals, and Fittest European Heads of State and Fittest Heads of State 2019.

REMOVED- President Vladimir Putin, Russia

• REMOVED- Read about why here.
• Putin works out every day of the week, a combination of the gym and then swimming. He claims that swimming is where he “gets much of Russia’s thinking done.”
• Putin has been practicing martial arts since he was 13 and has his judo black belt. He says that Martial Arts is a “good way of building up adrenaline and taking out aggression.”
• Putin also took up the sport of hockey when he turned 60, and says that “the other players don’t take it easy on him.”
• Putin does not engage in the use of alcohol unless it’s at a formal reception.
• Was featured on our Fittest Heads of 2016, The Fittest Heads of State 2017, Fittest Heads of State 2018, Fittest Heads of State 2019.

President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, Mongolia

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Battulga Khaltmaa (@battulgakh) on Apr 18, 2016 at 3:40am PDT

• Battulga won the wrestling world cup championship in Ulaanbaatar in 1989, which led to his award as Merited Sportsman of Mongolia in 1995.
• He was later selected as the Chairman of the Mongolian Judo Federation in 2006.
• Under Battulga’s leadership at the Judo Federation, Mongolian Judokas became Olympic champions for the first time in history.
• Because of Battulga’s success, judo has become one of the most popular sports in Mongolia.
• He was featured on our 2018 List of Top 10 Fittest Heads of State and Fittest Heads of State 2019.

President George Weah, Liberia

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by George Weah (@george_weah_official)

• President Weah was a decorated international footballer who still plays frequently on Saturdays.
• He became an international star and Liberian hero through a distinguished football career at Milan, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain.
• He is the only African to win the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year.
• In 2018, while President, dusted off his cleats and participated in a friendly match against Nigeria. He played for 79 minutes of the game!
• Made our Fittest Heads of State 2019 list.

Honorary Mentions:

Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily) on Oct 11, 2019 at 6:54am PDT

• Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, 93, is the longest-serving monarch in British history, currently holding the role for 68 years.
• She stays healthy by eating one of her favorite meals, grilled or poached fish with vegetables and salad. Her former chef says that “She’s very disciplined. She could have anything she wants, but it is her discipline that keeps her so well and healthy.”
• She has tapped into eating organic because of her son Charles, Prince of Wales, being a long-time leader in the organic farming movement.
• It is a British ritual for her to enjoy a cup of tea and barley water. Barley is a rich source of soluble and insoluble fiber; and it is said to help support the kidneys, especially during times of stress.
• The Queen is also known for her love of horses–she breeds horses and ponies–and reaps the benefits of horseback riding.
• She has been featured on our 2018 Fittest Heads of State in the World, Fittest Heads of State 2019, and The Fittest Heads of State over 70.
• Samir Becic: “I have the ultimate respect for Her Majesty’s discipline, aptitude, charisma, and never-ending energy! LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!”

Pope Francis

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pope Francis (@franciscus)

Pope Francis inspires us to use our spiritual health to improve our overall health and fitness. Pope Francis has made such a positive impact in the world, especially for only a short three years as Pope. In such a small amount of time, he has inspired us to not only cut back on the pasta and sweets but walk more and get more active so we can lose 60 pounds as he did! Check out our 10 Health and Fitness Tips from Pope Francis.

Samir Becic: “I admire his vision, heart and wisdom. You Rock Papa!”

*Originally published on samirbecic.com

As part of this campaign, Samir has sent dedicated books to each of the Top 40 Fittest U.S. Representatives 2020. In each book, he writes a personal note to each fit Congressmember thanking them for their dedication to their constituents and Americans during the unprecedented year we’ve all had with the COVID-19 pandemic. His ultimate goal is to send 2000 books.

Signing more books for my new health and fitness campaign in Texas. The response has been great, wish I had done it sooner. I truly appreciate all the thank you notes from our political leaders throughout the state. Goal 300 cities/2000 books. The original goal was 1000 books. pic.twitter.com/AHLufHC0q6

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 9, 2021

Just finished signing books for the 35 U.S. Congressmembers with a message thanking them for their dedication and service during an unprecedented year.
Every U.S Congressmember (435) and U.S. Senator (100) will receive a signed copy of my fitness book ReSync Your Life. pic.twitter.com/zaWDwJhMEG

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 10, 2021

As part of this campaign, Samir has sent dedicated books to each of the Top 20 Fittest Senators in America 2020. In each book, he writes a personal note to the fit Senators thanking them for their dedication to their constituents and Americans during the unprecedented year we’ve all had with the COVID-19 pandemic. His ultimate goal is to send 2000 books.

Signing dedicated copies of my @HarperCollins book “ReSYNC Your Life” for the “Top 20 Fittest Senators in America 2020”. Let’s get out of this pandemic healthier, stronger, more optimistic, and looking towards a brighter future! https://t.co/J18AQMMH0q pic.twitter.com/s15gL8MFw9

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) May 21, 2021

Just finished signing books for the 35 U.S. Congressmembers with a message thanking them for their dedication and service during an unprecedented year.
Every U.S Congressmember (435) and U.S. Senator (100) will receive a signed copy of my fitness book ReSync Your Life. pic.twitter.com/zaWDwJhMEG

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 10, 2021

As part of this campaign, Samir has sent dedicated books to each of the Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020. In each book, he writes a personal note to the fit Mayors thanking them for their dedication to their constituents during the unprecedented year we’ve all had with the COVID-19 pandemic. His ultimate goal is to send 2000 books.

Signing dedicated copies of my book “ReSYNC Your Life” for the “Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020”. Let’s get out of this pandemic healthier, stronger, more optimistic, and looking towards a brighter future! Congratulations Mayor @SylvesterTurner! https://t.co/vfNxLd3Nf8 pic.twitter.com/nqiJtp9mb9

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) May 20, 2021

Signing more books for my new health and fitness campaign in Texas. The response has been great, wish I had done it sooner. I truly appreciate all the thank you notes from our political leaders throughout the state. Goal 300 cities/2000 books. The original goal was 1000 books. pic.twitter.com/AHLufHC0q6

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 9, 2021

As part of this campaign, Samir has sent dedicated books to each of the Top 10 Fittest Governors in America 2020. In each book, he writes a personal note to the fit Governors thanking them for their dedication to their constituents during the unprecedented year we’ve all had with the COVID-19 pandemic. His ultimate goal is to send 2000 books.

Signing dedicated copies of my book “ReSYNC Your Life” for the “Top 10 Fittest Governors 2020”. Let’s get out of this pandemic healthier, stronger, more optimistic, and looking towards a brighter future! https://t.co/w2k2flwPRU pic.twitter.com/EM53xyM0X0

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) May 20, 2021

Signing more books for my new health and fitness campaign in Texas. The response has been great, wish I had done it sooner. I truly appreciate all the thank you notes from our political leaders throughout the state. Goal 300 cities/2000 books. The original goal was 1000 books. pic.twitter.com/AHLufHC0q6

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 9, 2021

Signing more books for my new health and fitness campaign in Texas. The response has been great, wish I had done it sooner. I truly appreciate all the thank you notes from our political leaders throughout the state. Goal 300 cities/2000 books. The original goal was 1000 books. pic.twitter.com/AHLufHC0q6

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 9, 2021

So far, he’s sent books to the Mayors and Council-members of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin; Harris County leadership; the 36 U.S. Congresspeople that represent Texas; and the Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America. In each book, he writes a personal note to our political leaders thanking them for their dedication to Texans/Americans during the unprecedented year we’ve all had with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just finished signing books for the 35 U.S. Congressmembers with a message thanking them for their dedication and service during an unprecedented year.
Every U.S Congressmember (435) and U.S. Senator (100) will receive a signed copy of my fitness book ReSync Your Life. pic.twitter.com/zaWDwJhMEG

— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) April 10, 2021

His ultimate goal is to send 2000 books. Next up: every U.S. Senator and U.S. Congressmember, Texas state Senators and Representatives, and the Mayors of the 100 largest cities in America!

On this Samir Becic says “Dictators are depressive psychopaths, paranoid narcissists, antisocial, sadistic, schizoid, and self-defeatnig. Therefore they are not fit physically or mentally!! They are not fit to rule!”

Health Fitness Revolution along with its founder Samir Becic, researched the eating and fitness habits of notorious dictators, past and present, to see if they lived a healthy lifestyle.

Adolf Hitler, Germany

• Hitler suffered from chronic gas and indigestion. His digestive issues eventually convinced him to become a vegetarian. His indigestion got so bad in the months before his death that he was reduced to a diet of mashed potatoes and clear broth.
• Before Hitler became a vegetarian, he showed some carnivorous instincts. One chef recalls multiple occasions in the 1930s when Hitler dined on fledgling pigeon stuffed with tongue, liver and pistachio nuts.
• Hitler was so paranoid that he had 15 young women taste every one of his meals for poison before he dined. One tester recalled that ‘the food was delicious, only the best vegetables, asparagus, bell peppers, everything you can imagine. And always with a side of rice or pasta.’
• Hitler did not lead a healthy lifestyle. Even though the Nazi party promoted a cult of physical fitness, the Fuhrer had no interest in sports or games of any kind and his only exercise came from long walks and pacing around the room.
• In addition to his lack of exercise, Hiter abused drugs. He took over 20 pills a day, most devoid of any medical use whatsoever. He also injected methamphetamines every morning just to get out of bed and required a large dose of valium to fall asleep. Some sources say he was one of the first users of anabolic steroids.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!”

Idi Amin, Uganda

• The Ugandan dictator ruled over the south African country for most of the 1970’s. A delusional megalomaniac, he referred to himself as, “His Excellency, President for Life, Field Marshal Al Hadji Doctor Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO, MC, Lord of All the Beasts of the Earth and Fishes of the Seas and Conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in General and Uganda in Particular and the Uncrowned King of Scotland.”
• It was rumored that he was a cannibal and kept the heads of his political enemies in his fridge. When confronted on his cannibalism, he replied that he didn’t like human flesh because it was “too salty.”
• Too much salt did not prevent him from enjoying fast food. His son claimed that Idi Amin loved to eat pizza and meat, but most of all was a fan of Kentucky Fried Chicken. His taste for fast-food led to obesity, which put a strain on his arthritic knees.
• Amin also ate over 40 oranges every day because he believed that they granted him sexual prowess.
• The hefty dictator did manage to get some exercise. He was fond of swimming and playing basketball.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!”

Mao Zhedong, China

• Mao led the Communist takeover of China following World War II. His modernization programs caused a massive famine that claimed the lives of between 20 and 40 million Chinese citizens.
• His favorite food was hong shao rou (red braised pork), which is a rural dish consisting of cubes of braised pork belly glazed with caramelised sugar and covered with Shaoxing rice wine. Propaganda portrayed this dish as a brain food that allowed Mao to defeat his enemies.
• The communist dictator despised Chinese Haute Cuisine and preferred simple foods.
• Mao lived a largely sedentary lifestyle, spending much time in bed. He did have an indoor swimming pool, which was rare for the time.
• Despite his own inactivity, Mao created a fitness regimen for his people to keep them in shape and prepare them for an invasion by outside forces.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!!”

Benito Mussolini, Italy

• Mussolini did not indulge in his country’s revered cuisine. He rarely ate pasta or meat and called French food “useless.” His favorite food was a salad made of raw garlic and olive oil, which he thought was good for his heart. His wife thought it made him smell unbearable.
• Drank up to three quarts of milk a day to quell his stomach aches. Ironically, he tried to hide his milk habit from Hitler, fearing that the Fuhrer would perceive this as “unfascist.”
• The Italian ruler maintained an image of personal fitness. He spent much of his time running, riding, fencing, and playing tennis and football. At military parades he would run up and down the lines of soldiers.
• Some sources close to Mussolini claim that he never enjoyed personal fitness, but just did the activities to promote his image as a physically virile fascist leader.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit”

Pol Pot, Cambodia

• This murderous Communist revolutionary caused the death of 1 out of 7 of his countrymen and women.
• The leader preferred to eat simple peasant foods. His typical diet consisted of venison, fresh fruits, and wild boor.
• Pol Pot consumed moderate quantities of Chinese wine and brandy.
• His cook claims that the Cambodian dictator enjoyed cobra stew. To prepare the dish, the cook beheaded a cobra and dried it out in the sun so that the poison would dissipate.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!”

Nicolae Ceaușescu, Romania 

• During his repressive 20 year reign, Nicolae Ceaușescu followed a repetitive and monotonous daily routine. He ate his meals at the same time every day and enjoyed a midday nap.
• Luxury food items were practically nonexistent in Romania during the Communist regime. Ceaușescu ate better than his people, but also kept to a simple, balanced diet of mostly vegetables and dairy products. He didn’t drink any fizzy drinks or eat any chocolate.
• Did not smoke and did light cardio, such as going on walks or hunts. The hunts, however, were staged. His advisors left sleeping pills coated with honey in the forest to tranquilize bears for Ceaușescu to kill at will.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!”

Josef Stalin, Soviet Union

• The infamous Soviet dictator ruled with an iron fist and was very paranoid. Still, he indulged in cuisine from his native Georgia. He occasionally held all-night banquets that served Georgian sweet wines, pickled cheese, and savory meats.
• Took a liking to the prized Russian nelma freshwater fish during his time as a Bolshevik revolutionary. He would continue to eat this simple food once he became leader of the Soviet Union.
• As Stalin forcibly modernized Russia, he feared invasions from fascist Germany and the capitalist Western powers. To keep his starving population in shape, Stalin implemented a fitness program in the 1930’s called “Ready for Labor and Defense,” or GTO. This program required all citizens of the U.S.S.R. to enter competitive athletic competitions. These athletic competitions included swimming, running, and grenade throwing.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!!”

Bashar Al-Assad, Syria 

• Al-Assad tries to eat healthy in his bunker beneath war-torn Syria. The dictator has been photographed enjoying drinks like a mint and lemon tea, basic mediterranean foods, and staples of western cuisine.
• His wife, Asma Al-Assad, is described as a “fitness fanatic.” She wears calorie-counting fitness gadgets to monitor her weight and ships in health products and foods from western nations.
• Assad’s father-in-law is a Cardiologist, and Assad was studying to become a doctor before his older brother’s unexpected death put him next in line for Syrian leadership.
• The Assad’s recently invited youth powerlifting champion Maryana Naumova to visit them in Syria. The 16-year old Russian girl bench-pressed 330lbs. earlier this year, impressing the Assads.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit!”

Napoleon Bonaparte, France

• Long thought to have died from poisoning, a recent autopsy reveals that Napoleon likely died from stomach cancer. Scientists and historians attribute the stomach cancer to Napoleon’s poor diet: “The risk might have been further increased by his diet, which probably included salt-preserved foods, thoroughly roasted meats and few fresh fruits and vegetables, standard fare for long military campaigns.”
• Napoleon ate only when hungry when on campaign. His preferred meal was a simple fare consisting of beef, beans, and white bread, washed down with cheap Chambertin wine.
• The conqueror feasted on roasted chickens when they were available. Once he was exiled he did indulge in more decadent feasts full of rich foods, which likely contributed to his weight gain.
• Formal military training meant Napoleon exercised and drilled from the time he was a teenager. He got plenty of exercise as a youth from wrestling and horse riding.
• Samir Becic: “Not fit”

Kim Jong-un, North Korea

• According to Health Fitness Revolution, Kim Jong-un is the world’s unhealthiest leader.
• Since assuming power in 2011, Kim Jong-un has ballooned in size due to his extravagant tastes and sedentary lifestyle. His favorite food is the calorie-dense Emmantel Swiss cheese.
• The Korean dictator is also a binge drinker, known to knock back two bottles of champagne in a single sitting. He is frequently photographed smoking cigarettes.
• He recently reappeared in the public eye with a limp and a cane, which some experts say could be a sign of gout. The limp could also be because of a fractured ankle due to his quick weight gain.
• Kim Jong-il, the previous leader of North Korea, is thought to have died from diabetes and high blood pressure, linked to his excessive consumption of French cognac and fine foods. Kim Jong-un is at a genetic risk for these diseases and should reform his lifestyle or risk getting them.
• Samir Becic: Not fit!!!

Every year, Health Fitness Revolution recognizes politicians who choose to demonstrate healthy lifestyles for themselves, in addition to promoting physical activity within their communities. We recently published our new lists of the Top 10 Fittest Governors 2020, Top 20 Fittest Senators 2020, Top 40 Fittest United States Representatives 2020, and Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 as part of this effort to promote health and fitness in the U.S.

We are at the forefront of fitness in politics, and our previous lists of the fittest politicians have generated buzz in some of the nation’s leading media outlets. From the New York Times, to the LA Times, to the Houston Chronicle, Refinery29, Washington Post, and so on… Politico dubbed our list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators 2016 their “List du Jour”, they recently also mentioned our Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 list.

HFR founder and author of ReSYNC Your Life, Samir Becic intends to use this list to motivate other politicians to be more active, fit, and even more importantly- promote a healthy lifestyle to their constituents. “Especially now that our nation is greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is immensely important to promote a healthy lifestyle for both our physical and mental health. Let’s strengthen our immune systems as much as we can! This is obviously in addition to wearing a mask, social distancing, hand washing, and vaccinating when possible.” says Becic.

Here’s what matters to us in order of importance: promotion of fitness (actions, interviews, and social media)- this is the most important factor because sharing is caring, personal fitness level, nutritional habits, and age. “There were many extremely fit politicians who didn’t make this list because even though they are personally very fit, their lack of promotion of healthy living made them ineligible” says Becic.

Here are the Top 100 Fittest Americans Politicians of 2020:

This year, the list was particularly important because as the world has grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12 months, health has been at the forefront of the news. 

Now, more than ever, we are realizing that we have to emphasize our personal wellbeing through exercise and healthy nutrition. These simple yet profound lifestyle changes can help build our immune systems to better handle whatever viruses and bacteria the future has in store. 

These leaders continue to demonstrate to their country that no matter how frenzied life can get, fitness and health should always be a priority. Since our inaugural list in 2014, we’ve published an updated “Top 10” annually including 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 11 heads of state that make our 2021 list are not only pioneers as global ambassadors, but they are also leaders outside of the office when they are competing in sports, simply biking with their family or being pioneers in being able to curb the pandemic in their countries.

“The ‘Fittest Heads of State’ list was started to promote global fitness,” says Health Fitness Revolution founder  Samir Becic, who has 20 years of expertise in the fitness industry and was named No. 1 fitness trainer in the world for BTF and appointed “Fitness Czar” for the City of Houston. “This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more apparent that we need to build our immune systems through healthy lifestyle changes in order to make it robust for any future and unpredictable pandemics. We know now that next to social distancing, wearing a mask, washing our hands, and vaccinations, building our immune systems through healthy living is necessary- maybe even critical for our survival as a species.”

In no particular order, the following world leaders have become healthy role models for their citizens. From accomplished athletes to recreational weekend warriors, nutrition enthusiasts to nutrition policymakers, these heads of state are doing their part to lead by example in the quest for a stronger, healthier global community. It is important to note that although we found leaders who we knew were fit but because we were unable to find any accessible data on their routines, they were ineligible for this list. Samir adds to all world leaders “please share your healthy lifestyle habits!”

 Criteria for the Fittest Heads of State:

1. For each country, the first and second in charge are eligible for the list. For example: Canada and New Zealand have their Prime Ministers on this list even though their respective monarch Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state. The same goes for the United States, both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris qualify for this list.
2. Have to be healthy and fit personally.
3. Should promote a healthy lifestyle globally.
4. Physical fitness relative to age has been taken into substantial consideration.

Click to see who else made the Top 11 Fittest Heads of State 2021.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kamala Harris (@kamalaharris)

• The California senator is known for her daily morning workouts, eating a balanced Mediterranean diet, exercising with her husband on Sundays, and doing SoulCycle spin classes regularly.
• Harris famous said in a 2015 interview: “In order to find balance, I feel very strongly about two things in particular in terms of routine. Work out, and eat well. I can’t say how many women I’ve mentored in college. I say, “Are you working out every morning?” No. Then I say, “You’ve got to work out.” It has nothing to do with your weight. It’s about your mind. I work out every morning. Only half an hour. I get on the treadmill. That’s it. Every morning, I don’t care what time. It gets your blood flowing. It gets your adrenaline flowing. I believe in eating well. It’s not fanatical. Eat good food. Make sure you’ve got good vegetables.”
• Plans on implementing a universal healthcare program that will provide standard, quality healthcare to every citizen regardless of their wealth.
• Wants to expand drug coverage under Medicare.
• Made our Top 10 Fittest Senators 2017 and Fittest Senators 2020 list.
• Plans to expand Medicare to everyone.
• Works out with her husband Doug on Sundays.
• “I work out every morning, regardless of how much sleep I’ve had” Harris has said.
• “I had liter water bottles that I filled, of course, with water to use them as hand weights,”
• 30 minutes on the elliptical or treadmill, or swimming
• If she has time on the weekends, she will take an hour-long Soul Survivor class at SoulCycle.
• Follows the Mediterranean Diet.
• Enjoys swimming.
• Samir Becic: “Vice President Harris, I’m honored to be able to include such an inspirational role model on this year’s list! Keep motivating Americans to get active.”

This year, the list was particularly important because as the world has grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12 months, health has been at the forefront of the news. 

Now, more than ever, we are realizing that we have to emphasize our personal wellbeing through exercise and healthy nutrition. These simple yet profound lifestyle changes can help build our immune systems to better handle whatever viruses and bacteria the future has in store. 

These leaders continue to demonstrate to their country that no matter how frenzied life can get, fitness and health should always be a priority. Since our inaugural list in 2014, we’ve published an updated “Top 10” annually including 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 11 heads of state that make our 2021 list are not only pioneers as global ambassadors, but they are also leaders outside of the office when they are competing in sports, simply biking with their family or being pioneers in being able to curb the pandemic in their countries.

“The ‘Fittest Heads of State’ list was started to promote global fitness,” says Health Fitness Revolution founder  Samir Becic, who has 20 years of expertise in the fitness industry and was named No. 1 fitness trainer in the world for BTF and appointed “Fitness Czar” for the City of Houston. “This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more apparent that we need to build our immune systems through healthy lifestyle changes in order to make it robust for any future and unpredictable pandemics. We know now that next to social distancing, wearing a mask, washing our hands, and vaccinations, building our immune systems through healthy living is necessary- maybe even critical for our survival as a species.”

In no particular order, the following world leaders have become healthy role models for their citizens. From accomplished athletes to recreational weekend warriors, nutrition enthusiasts to nutrition policymakers, these heads of state are doing their part to lead by example in the quest for a stronger, healthier global community. It is important to note that although we found leaders who we knew were fit but because we were unable to find any accessible data on their routines, they were ineligible for this list. Samir adds to all world leaders “please share your healthy lifestyle habits!”

 Criteria for the Fittest Heads of State:

1. For each country, the first and second in charge are eligible for the list. For example: Canada and New Zealand have their Prime Ministers on this list even though their respective monarch Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state. The same goes for the United States, both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris qualify for this list.
2. Have to be healthy and fit personally.
3. Should promote a healthy lifestyle globally.
4. Physical fitness relative to age has been taken into substantial consideration.

Click to see who else made the Top 11 Fittest Heads of State 2021.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Guðni Th. 2016 (@gudnith2016)

• Is a half marathon runner
• In 2018, According to the Icelandic Athletic Federation, this will be the 14th year in a row that the president participates in a half marathon in Reykjavík and the 16th time he participates in the event.
• According to mbl.is, Guðni’s record time in a half marathon in the Reykjavík Marathon was in 2014, when he completed the distance in 1:39:58, but most of the time, he has run the distance in between 1:40 and two hours.
• The 2020 marathon was cancelled due to COVID, so he and his wife participated in the Reykjavic Relays held in its place
• He told reporters he tries to exercise every other or every three days, but confessed he followed no carefully planned schedule. “My exercise has been jogging, football with friends, and I’m not particularly organized; I don’t follow any program, but just find the time, lace up my running shoes, and decide to run into the blue. I enjoy this very much.”
• Guðni is pleased how many running trails there are in the capital area. He likes to listen to music while running, but also appreciates the silence. Sometimes, he practices multi-tasking and pushes one of his kids in a stroller while running.
• “I frequently get very good ideas, I think, while running, for example points for speeches, articles and such. So the first thing I often do when I come home is to rush to find a pen and paper to jot things down, so I won’t forget all the ideas I got while running.”
• Samir Becic: “Mr. President, keep motivating Icelanders with your healthy lifestyle! With your inclusion on this list, I hope you will inspire people globally.”

This year, the list was particularly important because as the world has grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12 months, health has been at the forefront of the news. 

Now, more than ever, we are realizing that we have to emphasize our personal wellbeing through exercise and healthy nutrition. These simple yet profound lifestyle changes can help build our immune systems to better handle whatever viruses and bacteria the future has in store. 

These leaders continue to demonstrate to their country that no matter how frenzied life can get, fitness and health should always be a priority. Since our inaugural list in 2014, we’ve published an updated “Top 10” annually including 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 11 heads of state that make our 2021 list are not only pioneers as global ambassadors, but they are also leaders outside of the office when they are competing in sports, simply biking with their family or being pioneers in being able to curb the pandemic in their countries.

“The ‘Fittest Heads of State’ list was started to promote global fitness,” says Health Fitness Revolution founder  Samir Becic, who has 20 years of expertise in the fitness industry and was named No. 1 fitness trainer in the world for BTF and appointed “Fitness Czar” for the City of Houston. “This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more apparent that we need to build our immune systems through healthy lifestyle changes in order to make it robust for any future and unpredictable pandemics. We know now that next to social distancing, wearing a mask, washing our hands, and vaccinations, building our immune systems through healthy living is necessary- maybe even critical for our survival as a species.”

In no particular order, the following world leaders have become healthy role models for their citizens. From accomplished athletes to recreational weekend warriors, nutrition enthusiasts to nutrition policymakers, these heads of state are doing their part to lead by example in the quest for a stronger, healthier global community. It is important to note that although we found leaders who we knew were fit but because we were unable to find any accessible data on their routines, they were ineligible for this list. Samir adds to all world leaders “please share your healthy lifestyle habits!”

 Criteria for the Fittest Heads of State:

1. For each country, the first and second in charge are eligible for the list. For example: Canada and New Zealand have their Prime Ministers on this list even though their respective monarch Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state. The same goes for the United States, both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris qualify for this list.
2. Have to be healthy and fit personally.
3. Should promote a healthy lifestyle globally.
4. Physical fitness relative to age has been taken into substantial consideration.

Click to see who else made the Top 11 Fittest Heads of State 2021

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern)

• Has successfully eradicated COVID-19 in New Zealand, people can live their normal lives, workout, see family etc.
• Ardern has said she used to be a keen runner while living in London.
• Loved walking briskly to relieve stress while on the campaign trail- and did it a lot.
• Since becoming a mom, has said she misses running and walking as much but dances with her daughter to get moving. “When you’ve got a little one, that time out for those exercises gets that much harder – so instead, now, Neve loves to dance. So in the morning, and often before she goes to bed she’ll say ‘I want to dance’, and so we’ll put on some really bad children’s music – we’ll ruin Clark’s Spotify algorithms – and we’ll play something to dance to.”
• In September 2020, Jacinda Ardern backed  World United, the campaign will promote the importance of exercise to physical and mental health and is aimed at helping the global fitness industry reactivate paused members and attract new ones. Ardern said “We are facing a major health challenge, but as we come out of this, exercise will have a vital part to play in uniting us, and keeping us both mentally and physically well.”
• Wrote a meditation for SpiritofLife in May 2020.
• Aims to bring kindness back to politics.
• Supports a wellness budget for the country.
• Samir Becic: “Prime Minister, I cannot express how honored I am to include you on this list. Not only did you manage Covid-19 better than most leaders in the world, you are also a health role model, which adds to your greatness.”

This year, the list was particularly important because as the world has grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12 months, health has been at the forefront of the news. 

Now, more than ever, we are realizing that we have to emphasize our personal wellbeing through exercise and healthy nutrition. These simple yet profound lifestyle changes can help build our immune systems to better handle whatever viruses and bacteria the future has in store. 

These leaders continue to demonstrate to their country that no matter how frenzied life can get, fitness and health should always be a priority. Since our inaugural list in 2014, we’ve published an updated “Top 10” annually including 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. The 11 heads of state that make our 2021 list are not only pioneers as global ambassadors, but they are also leaders outside of the office when they are competing in sports, simply biking with their family or being pioneers in being able to curb the pandemic in their countries.

“The ‘Fittest Heads of State’ list was started to promote global fitness,” says Health Fitness Revolution founder  Samir Becic, who has 20 years of expertise in the fitness industry and was named No. 1 fitness trainer in the world for BTF and appointed “Fitness Czar” for the City of Houston. “This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more apparent that we need to build our immune systems through healthy lifestyle changes in order to make it robust for any future and unpredictable pandemics. We know now that next to social distancing, wearing a mask, washing our hands, and vaccinations, building our immune systems through healthy living is necessary- maybe even critical for our survival as a species.”

In no particular order, the following world leaders have become healthy role models for their citizens. From accomplished athletes to recreational weekend warriors, nutrition enthusiasts to nutrition policymakers, these heads of state are doing their part to lead by example in the quest for a stronger, healthier global community. It is important to note that although we found leaders who we knew were fit but because we were unable to find any accessible data on their routines, they were ineligible for this list. Samir adds to all world leaders “please share your healthy lifestyle habits!” Click to see who else made the Top 11 Fittest Heads of State 2021.

 Criteria for the Fittest Heads of State:

1. For each country, the first and second in charge are eligible for the list. For example: Canada and New Zealand have their Prime Ministers on this list even though their respective monarch Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state. The same goes for the United States, both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris qualify for this list.
2. Have to be healthy and fit personally.
3. Should promote a healthy lifestyle globally.
4. Physical fitness relative to age has been taken into substantial consideration.

BREAKING: President-elect Joe Biden takes the stage in Wilmington, Delaware, to address the nation. https://t.co/eJ4LLajSB6 pic.twitter.com/fQTOBOKjt7

— ABC News (@ABC) November 8, 2020

• Made our Top Fittest Heads of States, Top 100 Fittest U.S. Politicians, and Fitness Report Card for the 2016 Presidential Hopefuls lists.
• Joe Biden, at 78, is the picture of health and fitness and a phenomenal example to fellow Americans.
• While in office, he made sure to stay fit by using the Senate gym daily.
• Bikes outdoors.
• He owns and uses an at-home Peloton spin bike daily for his cardio.
• Runs.
• Lifts weights 4-5 times a week with an extra focus on core exercises.
• Excelled in various sports in his youth.
• Was a high school football star.
• Played baseball as a child.
• During debates, Vice President Joe Biden announced he would put $50 billion towards obesity and diabetes.
• At his celebratory speech, he jogged up to the stage, a picture of health!
• Samir Becic: “Mr. President, as an athlete, I hope I’m as fit as you at your age!”

Every year, Health Fitness Revolution recognizes politicians who choose to demonstrate healthy lifestyles for themselves, in addition to promoting physical activity within their communities. We recently published our new lists of the Top 40 Fittest United States Representatives 2020, Top 10 Fittest Governors 2020, Top 20 Fittest Senators 2020, and Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 as part of this effort to promote health and fitness in the U.S.

We are at the forefront of fitness in politics, and our previous lists of the fittest politicians have generated buzz in some of the nation’s leading media outlets. From the New York Times, to the LA Times, to the Houston Chronicle, Refinery29, Washington Post, and so on… Politico dubbed our list of the Top 10 Fittest Senators 2016 their “List du Jour”, they recently also mentioned our Top 20 Fittest Mayors in America 2020 list.

HFR founder and author of ReSYNC Your Life, Samir Becic intends to use this list to motivate other politicians to be more active, fit, and even more importantly- promote a healthy lifestyle to their constituents. “Especially now that our nation is greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is immensely important to promote a healthy lifestyle for both our physical and mental health. Let’s strengthen our immune systems as much as we can!” says Becic.

Here’s what matters to us in order of importance: promotion of fitness (actions, interviews, and social media)- this is the most important factor because sharing is caring, personal fitness level, nutritional habits, and age. “There were many extremely fit politicians who didn’t make this list because even though they are personally very fit, their lack of promotion of healthy living made them ineligible” says Becic. Here are the Top 20 Fittest Americans Politicians of 2020:

President-elect Joe Biden, 78

View this post on Instagram

Happy #nationalsunglassesday from the White House’s resident aviators enthusiast.

A post shared by Vice President Joe Biden (@vp44) on Jun 27, 2016 at 11:01am PDT

• Made our Top Fittest Heads of States, Top 100 Fittest U.S. Politicians, and Fitness Report Card for the 2016 Presidential Hopefuls lists.
• Joe Biden, at 76, is the picture of health and fitness and a phenomenal example to fellow Americans.
• Last year, Biden’s brother called a SiriusXM political talk show and made the claim that the President-elect can bench press multiple reps of 185 pounds.
• He also exercises on a rowing machine and Peloton bike, according to his campaign. 
• Bikes outdoors
• Runs
• According to Men’s Health Biden’s eating habits include fruit juice and Greek yogurt for breakfast and salads with protein—usually fish—for lunch and dinner.
• Works on core exercises.
• Excelled in various sports in his youth.
• Played baseball as a child.

Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, 56

• Harris served as the district attorney of San Francisco before being named the state’s attorney general in 2011. 
• Despite being so busy in her career, she still finds time to take care of herself
• She was the first woman, first African-American and the first Asian-American to hold the job. 
• Said in a newsletter that she stays balanced by working out and eating healthy.
  • “In order to find balance, I feel very strongly about two things in particular in terms of routine. Work out, and eat well. I can’t say how many women I’ve mentored in college. I say, “Are you working out every morning?” No. Then I say, “You’ve got to work out.” It has nothing to do with your weight. It’s about your mind. I work out every morning. Only half an hour. I get on the treadmill. That’s it. Every morning, I don’t care what time. It gets your blood flowing. It gets your adrenaline flowing. I believe in eating well. It’s not fanatical. Eat good food. Make sure you’ve got good vegetables.”
• “I work out every morning, regardless of how much sleep I’ve had,”
  • “I had liter water bottles that I filled, of course, with water to use them as hand weights,”
  • 30 minutes on the elliptical or treadmill, or swimming
  • If she has time on the weekends, she will take an hour-long Soul Survivor class at SoulCycle.
• Made our list of 2017 Top Fittest Senators list.
• Made our list of Top 20 Fittest Senators 2020 list.

Representative Markwayne Mullin, 43

• Former college wrestler.
  • Still very involved in the wrestling community.
• Former MMA fighter.
• Inducted into the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016.
• Hosts a regular MMA style workout routine for fellow congress members in the House gym.
• Leads annual outdoor fitness workout for Men’s Health Month. 
  • Includes an hour of various cardio and strength movements.
  • Over 60 people attend.
  • Has been joined by other politicians, former NFL players, and leaders in the fitness and nutrition industry.
• Encourages people to physically “push their limits” during a workout.
• Often posts instructional workout videos on social media to encourage and guide others.
• Prioritizes a healthy lifestyle and shares tips including:
  • Stay active, get good sleep, eat a balanced diet, and don’t neglect your mental health.
• Made our 2015 Top 10% Fittest American Congress People list.
• Made our list of Top 40 Fittest Congresspeople 2020 list.

Senator Kyrsten Sinema, 44

• Senator Sinema heavily emphasizes fitness, being the first sitting member of congress to complete an Ironman. 
• She uses half marathons to train for Ironmans.
• She currently holds the ACLI Course Record for women, and recently qualified for the Boston Marathon.
• Senator Sinema has also made food security in the US a priority, especially during the covid pandemic. She’s worked to provide additional funding to food banks, helping ensure proper nutrition for children and seniors.
• Made our list of Top 10% Fittest Congress Members.
• Made our list of Top 20 Fittest Senators 2020.

Representative Adam Kinzinger, 42

• Air Force pilot with 3 tours completed
• Named Men’s Health top 25 politicians
• Enjoys running and weightlifting
• Made our 2015 Top 10% Fittest American Congress People list
• Made our list of Top 40 Fittest Congresspeople 2020.

Mayor Steven Fulop, 43

View this post on Instagram

‪Last couple years we averaged around 2500 runners. Today, thanks to our new partnership with @nyrr we had more than 7000 runners in JC- we had ppl from Australia, Ireland, all over the region + of course #JerseyCity – more important than the race though is ‪that NYRR is committed to working with the JC Public Schools + our Recreation Dept to help bring year round programming/running to our young people towards a healthier JC. It was a good day for a run in a great city – 6:50 avg mile for me, a personal 5k best ‬ photo by @jbrophoto

A post shared by Steven Fulop (@stevenfulopjc) on May 4, 2019 at 3:30pm PDT

• Steven Fulop is the Mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey.
• Has completed two and a half Ironmans, one of which was finished in under 12 hours!
  • Has said that the Ironman was probably the hardest single task he was a part of because it really requires not only physical endurance but mental endurance.
• Ran in the 2012 NYC Marathon.
• Believes that being healthy and active can teach extreme discipline which is needed in order to be successful. 
• Created an Adult Fitness Class to help encourage the adults of Jersey City to become fit and then pass the mentality onto their children.
• Made our list of Top 25 Fittest Mayors 2018 list
• Made our list of Top 10 Fittest Mayors 2019 list
• Made our list of Top 20 Fittest Mayors 2020 list
• Read our exclusive interview with Mayor Steven Fulop here.