Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. encountered renewed scrutiny on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, following his explanation for choosing to wear jeans during workouts. Critics have labeled his rationale as perplexing and his exercise attire as potentially unsafe.
The 71-year-old Kennedy shared with Fox News host Jesse Watters that his preference for jeans stemmed from the convenience they offer. “Well, I just started doing that a long time ago because I would go hiking in the morning and then I’d go straight to the gym, and I found it was convenient, and now I’m used to it, so I just do it,” Kennedy stated on Tuesday.
Kennedy’s comments followed a viral workout video featuring him and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth undertaking the “Pete and Bobby Challenge,” which involves completing 50 pull-ups and 100 push-ups in under 10 minutes. While Hegseth donned typical gym attire, Kennedy was seen in his usual jeans and t-shirt.
The exercise session was held at the Pentagon gym, with Navy and Marine personnel observing. Hegseth reported completing the challenge in about 5 minutes and 25 seconds, with Kennedy finishing closely behind.
Earlier that day, Fox News host Greg Gutfeld questioned Kennedy’s choice of clothing. “Somebody’s gotta raise this question. Why does RFK wear jeans when he exercises? This is not the first time; this is now the third or fourth time. It’s all the time. It’s like wearing a Speedo to church. This is not right,” Gutfeld remarked.
Kennedy’s preference for jeans extends beyond the gym. Last month, he hiked Arizona’s Camelback Mountain in July heat while wearing jeans, drawing criticism from outdoor enthusiasts who deemed it hazardous.
Hiker Matt Larson encountered Kennedy on the trail and took a selfie with him. Larson noted the temperature was approximately 92 degrees Fahrenheit and found Kennedy’s completion of the hike at his age very impressive.
However, outdoor experts criticized the attire choice. Proper hot-weather hiking requires lightweight, breathable fabrics with sun protection. Heavy denim jeans can trap heat and pose risks of overheating in extreme conditions.
USA Today evaluated Kennedy’s workout style with unfavorable outcomes. Deputy Wellness Editor David Oliver attempted running in jeans during a humid July morning in Washington, D.C., and immediately regretted it.
Oliver described how humidity affected him, with sweat accumulating across his body, including his denim-covered legs.
Oliver managed to complete a three-mile run but felt restricted and uncomfortable. The jeans became heavier as they absorbed sweat. USA Today staff expressed relief at trying Kennedy’s approach but decided against repeating it.
Fitness experts advise against exercising in thick, non-stretchy materials, such as denim. Jeans can restrict movement, cause discomfort, and increase the risk of injury. They trap heat and create friction against the skin during physical activities, unlike athletic fabrics designed for exercise.
Social media users remain divided over Kennedy’s explanation. Some find his rationale practical, while others question his choice to hike in jeans. Comments range from “practical habits often stick” to “jeans are not good hiking pants, either.”
The “Pete and Bobby Challenge” is part of Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, which was introduced under the Trump administration. Kennedy stated that President Trump inspired the fitness challenge to motivate Americans to exercise more and adopt healthier eating habits.
The challenge has gained widespread attention, with notable completion times being reported.
Kennedy and Hegseth have extended the challenge to other officials, including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The challenge aligns with President Trump’s executive order reinstating the Presidential Fitness Test in schools.
Kennedy’s workout videos date back to his 2023 presidential campaign, when he posted clips of himself exercising in jeans while preparing for debates. His social media features him hiking, fishing, and swimming—all while wearing jeans.
Despite his explanation, Kennedy’s choices continue to pique the interest of fitness enthusiasts and health experts. His role as Health Secretary makes his unconventional exercise habits particularly notable, as he advocates for fitness while wearing attire deemed inappropriate for physical activity by experts.
Kennedy has not responded to inquiries about whether he plans to alter his workout attire in the future. His jeans-wearing exercise routine remains a subject of debate as the Trump administration advances its health and fitness agenda.
