Faith and Fitness A Christian Approach

For many years, I lived a sedentary life. After taking my first full-time desk job in 2006, I found myself moving less and sitting more. Before long, exercise became almost nonexistent in my daily routine. It wasn’t until 2015, with a little encouragement from my wife, that I began to see how physical movement could benefit not only my body but also my soul.

In the years since, I’ve come to see exercise through a different lens a Christian lens. I’m not a personal trainer, but as a pastor, I’ve discovered that caring for the body God has given us can deepen our joy, strengthen our faith, and better equip us to serve others. Here are ten principles that have shaped my understanding of exercise as a spiritual discipline.

1. God Designed Us to Move and to Meditate

From the beginning, God created humans to be both contemplative and active. We are meant to reflect on His truth, rejoice in His goodness, and represent Him through the work of our hands. Scripture repeatedly shows us that the Christian life involves rhythms of rest and exertion, of prayerful meditation and purposeful movement.

2. No Body Is Perfect

Our bodies bear the marks of the fall. Injury, disease, and weakness remind us that we live in a broken world. Yet, even with imperfections, our bodies are gifts from God. Paul reminds us that we are to glorify God in our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:20). Exercise is one way we can steward these gifts with gratitude.

3. Modern Life Keeps Us Still

Technology has made life easier but also far more sedentary than that of our ancestors. Walking everywhere was once the norm, but today, we have to choose intentional movement exercise if we want to remain physically capable of serving God and others.

4. Fitness for Good Works

When we speak of “fitness,” we must ask, fit for what? Paul gives us the answer: to be “ready for every good work” (Titus 3:1). Physical strength and endurance help us live out our faith practically serving, caring, and working for the good of others without being hindered by unnecessary physical weakness.

5. Not About Looking Good, but Doing Good

Jesus called us to let our light shine so that people may see our good works and glorify the Father (Matthew 5:16). Our exercise isn’t about chasing vanity or the latest fitness trends; it’s about being physically prepared to love others well and accomplish the good works God has prepared for us (Ephesians 2:10).

6. Exercise Is an Acquired Taste

At first, exercise can feel unpleasant. But just like spiritual disciplines, the joy grows with time and consistency. God designed our bodies to build strength through effort and rest. Start small and keep going the rewards will follow.

7. Movement Sharpens the Mind

Science continues to affirm what Scripture has long suggested: physical health is deeply connected to mental clarity and emotional stability. Regular movement improves focus and energy, which in turn aids prayer, study, and ministry.

8. Training the Body Trains the Will

Exercise teaches perseverance. Pushing through discomfort conditions not just the body but also the heart and mind. The self-discipline required in fitness mirrors the self-control Paul urges believers to practice in their spiritual lives (1 Corinthians 9:24–27).

9. Small Steps Add Up

We often overestimate what we can do in a week but underestimate what we can do in a year. The same principle that applies to spiritual growth applies to physical health: steady, daily effort creates lasting change.

10. Pray Over Your Exercise

Paul writes that everything God created is good and “made holy by the word of God and prayer” (1 Timothy 4:4–5). Exercise, like eating, sleeping, and working, can be consecrated to God. Pray for strength, endurance, and the right motives not self-glory but God’s glory.

A Holistic Vision of Stewardship

Whether you’re just starting or already active, consider how your physical life can become an offering to God. Exercise isn’t just about living longer or looking better it’s about living better for Him. By moving with purpose and gratitude, we align our bodies with the calling to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).

Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates with someone who needs encouragement to see exercise as part of their spiritual walk with God.