In a rare and refreshingly candid interview on The Skinny Confidential podcast, Ivanka Trump offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her evolving family life, revealing a surprising passion that’s taken over the Trump household: jiu-jitsu.
The 43-year-old former White House advisor and entrepreneur credited her teenage daughter, Arabella, with sparking the interest.
“She came to me when she was 11, she’s now 13, and said, ‘As a woman, I need to know how to defend myself,’” Ivanka recalled. “I was so in awe of her.”
What began as a simple ride to self-defense class quickly turned into a full-family activity.
“She started asking me to join, then I joined. Then my two sons wanted to do what their older sister was doing, then my husband joined,” she said.
More Than a Workout
Ivanka described jiu-jitsu as “a moving meditation” that blends physical discipline with mental clarity. “It combines physical movements and philosophy in an amazing wayk, like three-dimensional chess,” she explained.
For Ivanka, the practice isn’t just about fitness. It’s about mindset.
“It’s very focused on extracting yourself from any situation and then doing harm only if you need to,” she said, underscoring the sport’s strategic and empowering nature.
Wellness, Family, and Balance
Known for her polished image and business acumen, Ivanka has long embraced an active lifestyle, but she admits she’s never been a traditional gym person.
“I love sports. I love skiing, I love surfing, that’s a recent thing, but I just love it. There are few things I enjoy doing more,” she said.
She also revealed a softer side of Miami’s influence on her routine.
“I grew up playing tennis, but in Miami, everyone’s into padel or pickleball,” she added. “I play that less, but you know, it’s sort of fun and social.”
A Family That Trains Together
From the outside, Ivanka Trump has always been known for her poise, discipline, and drive. But this new chapter, grounded in martial arts, mindful movement, and family time, paints a fuller picture of someone continually evolving, personally and as a mother.
What started as one daughter’s empowering request has grown into a shared experience for the entire family and a reminder that strength comes in many forms.
