A Workout, Then Diplomacy: US–Japan Defense Talks Get Physical

US–Japan defense talks began in an unexpected setting this week, not across a conference table, but inside a military gym.

Before formal meetings in Washington, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi trained together alongside US troops, performing basic physical exercises including push-ups and rowing.

The session took place at a US Army base near the capital and was shared publicly by both governments, framing the workout as a gesture of solidarity ahead of bilateral talks.

Officials described the moment as a way to underscore the close military relationship between the two allies before addressing security cooperation, regional stability, and alliance coordination.

Military alliances are often reinforced through shared rituals, and physical training alongside soldiers has long been used as a visual shorthand for unity, readiness, and mutual commitment.

The workout preceded discussions expected to focus on defense cooperation amid rising tensions in East Asia.

The video quickly spread on social media, drawing attention for its unusual blend of diplomacy and physical training. It follows a broader pattern of leaders using informal, highly visual moments to communicate closeness and cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic settings.