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.
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.”
