Fit to Lead

Analysis: Both men are in superb condition for their ages (Bush, 58; Kerry, 60). A low resting heart rate is nice to have in stressful situations such as directing an overseas invasion. But a lower body-mass index predicts greater longevity and a generally healthier lifestyle -- good role-modeling for a comprehensive and affordable prevention-based health-care system available to everyone.

THE FAN

Facts: Kerry has made several unforgivable sports-related errors in recent months. He referred to Lambeau Field, legendary home turf of the Green Bay Packers, as "Lambert" Field. He also lauded the Ohio Buckeyes while campaigning in Michigan. And he once revealed his favorite Boston Red Sox player to be Eddie Yost -- a man who never played for the team.

Bush used to own a 2 percent stake in the Texas Rangers. He also has acknowledged that, while he doesn't really read much of the newspaper, he does dig into the sports section every day. In school he was known more as an organizer and cheerleader than a stellar athlete -- the classic fan profile, although he does not, technically, drink beer anymore.

Analysis: Kerry is more the participatory type, reflecting his genteel roots. (A legitimate sweat on the playing fields is jolly good sport; slobbering on pre-game brats in the parking lot is something others do.) The generous tax breaks Bush enjoyed as part owner of the Rangers seem to have informed his political philosophy: Tax relief for the owners helped the team thrive. Baseball is America's sport; thus, cutting taxes for the wealthy helps America.

GLITCHES

Facts: Kerry had his prostate removed after doctors discovered cancer on it. He has also undergone elective shoulder surgery for a small muscle tear. Bush has had four non-cancerous skin lesions removed, and persistent knee problems have forced him to cut back on his running.

The president has wiped out several times while mountain biking, most recently on his Texas ranch in July. He scraped his face and knees but got up and kept riding. Kerry fell off his road bike while pedaling outside of Boston in May. He was not hurt, though he didn't continue his ride. This spring, while snowboarding, the senator collided with a Secret Service agent.

Analysis: Bush views falls and spills as unavoidable, hence his reluctance to acknowledge any failure. A wipeout is not a "mistake," but rather a natural consequence of action. Kerry is more insecure about being perceived as weak. When he was asked about his crash with the agent on the slopes, he answered tersely, "I don't fall down," then blamed the agent for the mishap.

VICE PRESIDENTIAL BONUS POINTS

Facts: An avid runner, John Edwards has finished five marathons. Dick Cheney loves nothing more than to cap his limit of ducks.

Analysis: Edwards is in top physical condition. Cheney has had four heart attacks and shouldn't walk to the refrigerator without a charged defibrillator in the room. Is it any surprise that one supports big pharmaceutical companies while the other sues them?