The Real Reason RFK Jr. Wears Jeans To Work Out

Long time vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was Donald Trump's controversial pick to head the Department of Health and Human Services, and we've seen RFK Jr. go all in on a MAGA transformation since endorsing Trump in August 2024. One of the more shocking revelations about him since his political ascension was that RFK Jr. wears jeans to work out. This style choice was highlighted during RFK Jr.'s cringe gym battle with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. He explained why he does so in an interview with Jesse Watters on Fox News. Apparently, he would often hike while wearing jeans and then head straight to the gym; it was easier to just not change, and now he's used to it. We suppose we could see some logic there, so we wondered if maybe RFK Jr. was on to something.

The List asked Amanda Dvorak, a Certified Personal Trainer at Garage Gym Reviews, about this jean wearing gym behavior to see if there were any good reasons to do so. Short answer, pretty much no; they're not the greatest fabric for exercising for a number of reasons. "Exercising in jeans limits mobility," Dvorak explained. "The fabric doesn't stretch well, which can restrict range of motion during squats, lunges, or even cardio. Jeans also trap heat and moisture, which increases the risk of chafing, discomfort, and even skin irritation. From a safety standpoint, seams and stiff denim can make movements awkward and put more strain on joints."

RFK Jr.'s explanation for simply not wanting to deal with changing clothes and want to make things a bit more convenient for himself is the only one that Amanda Dovrak could see for wearing jeans to the gym. But it still seems a bit confusing since it can't take that much time to pack a gym bag and then pop on a pair of gym shorts or sweatpants in the locker room. Perhaps RFK Jr. is busier than the rest of us and just doesn't have the time. RFK Jr. certainly seems comfortable in jeans; he's even been seen swimming in them. He seems to be less comfortable wearing a shirt at the gym; he's shared footage of him working out in full denim on the bottom, complete with a belt, but nothing on top.

Dovrak had some recommendations for gym goers that would be more comfortable and perhaps even safer when you're at the gym. "The best option is clothing designed for exercise which is usually breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics with some stretch for mobility," Dvorak said. "Shorts, leggings, or joggers paired with a supportive top allow full range of motion and keep you comfortable. Clothes that move with your body also reduce the risk of overheating and skin issues. Comfort, flexibility, and sweat management should be the priority."