Even Presidents Train: 5 Commanders-in-Chief Who Studied Martial Arts

At Johnson’s Martial Arts, we train leaders—on and off the mat. That’s why we love looking at real-life role models who reflect the values we teach: discipline, confidence, resilience, and personal growth.

Believe it or not, some of those role models have led the free world.

Here are six U.S. Presidents who practiced or supported martial arts—and what their stories teach us about leadership.

1. Theodore Roosevelt – Judo & Boxing

Teddy Roosevelt was America’s original action hero president. A fan of rough sports, Roosevelt practiced judo while in office and earned a brown belt—making him the first U.S. president to study a formal martial art. He also boxed extensively, even during his presidency, until a punch left him partially blind in one eye.

➡️ Lesson: Tough times don’t last—tough leaders do. Martial arts builds that toughness.

2. Barack Obama – Taekwondo (Blue Belt)

President Obama didn't just receive an honorary black belt from South Korea—he actually trained in Taekwondo and earned a blue belt under a Chicago instructor during his early years. His appreciation for discipline and structured growth was clear in both his martial arts and his leadership style.

➡️ Lesson: Humble progress is powerful. Even a blue belt represents focus and dedication.

3. George W. Bush – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Enthusiast

While he never competed formally, Bush explored Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) later in life and trained casually with instructors. He admired the strategic nature of the art and the mental toughness it develops.

➡️ Lesson: Martial arts isn’t just about fighting—it’s about thinking.

4. Donald Trump – Honorary 9th Dan Black Belt (Taekwondo)

In 2021, the World Taekwondo Headquarters awarded Trump an honorary 9th-degree black belt, recognizing his support for the martial arts community. Though he did not train, the symbolic gesture highlights the international impact of martial arts diplomacy.

➡️ Lesson: Martial arts crosses borders and bridges cultures.

5. Joe Biden – Boxer at Heart

As a young man, Biden used boxing to build self-confidence and overcome a stutter. Though not a martial artist by rank, his early experience in the ring shaped his toughness and ability to stay calm under pressure.

➡️ Lesson: Martial arts builds mental grit—and it lasts a lifetime.

6. George Washington – Fencing & Saber Combat

America’s first president didn’t practice modern martial arts—but he was a highly trained swordsman, skilled in fencing and saber techniques of the 18th century. These arts demanded precision, discipline, and fast decision-making—principles that guided his leadership through the Revolutionary War.

➡️ Lesson: The spirit of martial arts has always been part of American leadership.

🧠 Final Thoughts from Johnson’s Martial Arts

Leadership, confidence, and growth—these are the core traits we build every day in our students. And if presidents can train, so can you.

Whether you’re just getting started or continuing your black belt journey, remember: every great leader trains their mind and body.

📍 Join us at Johnson’s Martial Arts and become the kind of leader the world needs—one class at a time.