Presidents of the United States lead incredibly busy lives, filled with meetings, decisions, and responsibilities that impact the nation and the world. Amid the pressures of the highest office, they have developed unique routines and habits that might surprise many people.
What do some of the world’s most powerful individuals do in their personal time? These habits and hobbies provide fascinating insights into their personalities and how they manage stress and relaxation. From early morning rituals to unusual hobbies, these daily practices reveal a different side of the Presidents.
1) Abe Lincoln’s Love for Wrestling
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, had a surprising talent: wrestling. Long before his political career, Lincoln enjoyed the sport and was quite skilled at it.
Lincoln participated in nearly 300 matches and lost only one. His wrestling prowess earned him a reputation as a formidable opponent. He gained recognition not just locally but also across various towns.
In 1992, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame honored Lincoln by including him in their Outstanding American wing. This honor came nearly 130 years after his death, showing the lasting impact of his wrestling skills.
Lincoln’s interest in wrestling started during his early years in New Salem, Illinois. He worked in a local shop and often accepted challenges from local wrestlers. This hobby helped him build a strong physical presence, which complemented his later political career.
His wrestling achievements were even noted by his contemporaries, adding to his image as a strong and resilient leader. Lincoln’s athletic background is an interesting facet of his life that is less commonly known.
If intrigued by Abe Lincoln’s athletic prowess, more details can be found on his wrestling career.
2) Teddy Roosevelt’s Intense Workouts
Teddy Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States, was well-known for his rigorous exercise regimen. He believed in maintaining both physical and mental health through regular workouts. Each day, he engaged in a variety of activities to keep himself fit and energized.
Roosevelt’s daily routine included boxing and wrestling. These sports helped him build strength and stay agile. He even had a custom-built boxing ring installed in the White House.
Hiking was another one of his favorite activities. Roosevelt would often explore rugged terrains and national parks. His passion for the outdoors led him to spend hours hiking and enjoying nature.
Moreover, Roosevelt was an avid horse rider. He would go for long rides, often pushing himself and his horse to the limit. His love for horseback riding was well-documented and remained a significant part of his fitness routine.
In addition to these intense workouts, Roosevelt also practiced judo. He was one of the first Americans to earn a brown belt in the martial art. This discipline contributed to his well-rounded fitness.
For more on his routine, visit Mental Floss.
3) JFK’s Passion for Sailing
John F. Kennedy had a deep love for the sea. His passion for sailing began at a young age and never waned throughout his life. He often spent his free time on the water, enjoying the tranquility and challenge that sailing provided.
Kennedy’s first boat was a 22-foot sailing boat named Flash II. He learned the basics of sailing on this boat and went on to win several major regattas in America. Sailing was more than just a hobby; it was a way for him to relax and unwind from the pressures of his political career.
One of JFK’s favorite boats was the Victura, a 25-foot sloop. He received this boat at the age of 15 and continued to sail it throughout his life. Kennedy taught his siblings and his wife, Jacqueline, how to sail on the Victura. The boat became a symbol of his connection to the sea and his desire for a simple life away from the public eye.
Kennedy’s passion for sailing also influenced his family. They shared many memorable moments on the water. His love for the sea was so profound that it became a significant part of his identity, as highlighted by the JFK Library.
JFK’s dedication to sailing shows a side of him that many might not know. It was an activity that brought him immense joy and offered a peaceful retreat from his demanding duties as President.
4) Obama’s Basketball Games
Barack Obama often played basketball during his time in the White House. This wasn’t just for fun; it helped him stay fit and reduce stress. He played with a variety of people, including NBA players and his close friends.
One notable game included stars like LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Derrick Rose. These games were not just casual; they were competitive and intense. Obama was known for being tough and strategic on the court.
Arne Duncan, a former cabinet member, often praised Obama’s basketball skills. Duncan used the term “cerebral” to describe Obama’s playing style, highlighting his ability to think ahead. Even though he held a busy job as President, Obama made time for this sport.
Craig Robinson, his brother-in-law and a college basketball coach, believed that the game played a big part in shaping Obama as a person. Basketball provided a space for Obama to unwind and connect with others in a different setting.
These games symbolize more than just a hobby; they were a tool for maintaining balance and fostering camaraderie. Obama’s basketball games left an enduring impression on those who played with him and watched him play.
5) FDR’s Daily Cocktail Hour
Franklin D. Roosevelt had a unique way to unwind each day. He enjoyed a nightly cocktail hour. This routine helped him relax and connect with others.
Roosevelt typically hosted these gatherings in the White House. He often invited friends, family, and advisers to join him. They would talk about the day’s events and enjoy drinks together.
President Roosevelt had a keen interest in mixology. He liked to prepare drinks himself. One of his favorite cocktails was the martini. He also enjoyed trying new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients.
During a visit from King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1938, Roosevelt treated them to his cocktail hour. He had a cocktail shaker ready and shared a thoughtful drink with the King. This moment helped build a stronger bond with the British monarch.
Roosevelt’s cocktail hour was not just about relaxation. It also served as an informal meeting time. Many important discussions took place over these drinks, contributing to his presidency’s key decisions and policies.
His nightly ritual provided him with a consistent way to balance the stresses of leading the nation. It was a small but significant part of his routine that helped him manage the demands of his role.
6) George W. Bush’s Early Morning Runs
George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States, was known for his commitment to fitness. Every morning, he made time for a run, even when his schedule was packed with presidential duties.
Bush’s passion for running was not limited to short distances. Before becoming president, he completed the Houston Marathon in 3:44:52, a notable achievement demonstrating his dedication.
During his presidency, Bush often started his day with a run. This routine helped him stay physically fit and mentally sharp. He believed that exercise was essential for handling the stresses of the job.
Bush’s running routine included runs at various locations, including the White House grounds. He maintained this habit consistently throughout his time in office, showing a strong commitment to personal health.
In addition to running, Bush also enjoyed other forms of exercise such as cycling. His morning runs, however, remained a staple in his daily routine, illustrating how he balanced the demands of the presidency with his need for physical activity.
Bush’s early morning runs were a clear example of how he prioritized fitness.
7) Thomas Jefferson’s Routine Horseback Rides
Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, was known for his love of horseback riding. Riding almost every day, Jefferson found relaxation and a chance to think while on horseback. His rides were typically conducted on his estate at Monticello.
Jefferson started riding daily after his wife, Martha, passed away in 1782. He preferred early morning rides, often before breakfast. One of his notable horses was Allycroker, a high-bred bay mare that he inherited. Allycroker’s foal, Caractacus, was also one of Jefferson’s favorites.
These rides were not leisurely strolls but rather brisk sessions. Jefferson enjoyed the exercise and the opportunity to clear his mind. His routine horseback rides became a significant part of his daily life and his health regimen.
For more about Jefferson’s horses and his riding habits, visit this article on Thomas Jefferson’s daily rides.
8) Harry Truman’s Piano Playing
Harry Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, had a deep love for music. One of his favorite instruments to play was the piano.
Truman’s piano playing was not just a casual hobby. He often played to relax and entertain guests at the White House. The piano provided him with a sense of peace and joy amidst his busy schedule.
A notable moment in Truman’s presidency involved a special piano gifted to him. This piano, made from materials assembled from United Nations countries, was a symbol of international cooperation. Truman received it with great pride and often played it.
He was known to play with “obvious enjoyment,” which reflected his genuine affection for music. Truman sometimes played for official events, showcasing his talent to visitors and dignitaries.
Truman’s musical interests were well-known among his contemporaries. His performances were not just private moments but part of his public persona. His ability to play the piano was a testament to his diverse talents beyond politics.
To learn more about his passion for the piano, you can visit the Truman Library’s page on Harry S. Truman playing a piano. This page highlights his enjoyment and the significance of the instrument during his time in office.
9) Calvin Coolidge’s Afternoon Naps
Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president of the United States, was well known for his daily afternoon naps. His routine included an hourlong nap after lunch each day.
Coolidge’s naps were not just a personal preference; they were essential for his daily functioning. When he missed his naps, he often fell asleep during meetings.
During vacations, Coolidge ensured he maintained this habit. He believed that these naps were crucial for his productivity and well-being.
Contemporaries sometimes found his napping habit amusing. Yet, Coolidge remained steadfast in his belief that these breaks were necessary for his health. For more on Coolidge’s unique habits, visit History Facts.
10) Bill Clinton’s Crossword Puzzle Hobby
Bill Clinton has a well-known love for crossword puzzles. He often amazed people with his skill in completing the New York Times crossword in just a few minutes. As a multitasker, he sometimes solved puzzles while talking with political leaders on the phone.
Clinton’s passion for crosswords wasn’t just limited to solving them. In 2007, he even wrote clues for a Times crossword. The puzzle was filled with clever wordplay, puns, and references to pop culture. His hobby helped him stay sharp and focused during his busy days.
During his 1992 campaign, reports of Clinton’s love for crosswords surfaced frequently. He even shared his affection for this hobby in a 2006 documentary. It’s clear that crossword puzzles played an important role in his daily routine and mental fitness.
