#projectC61920 Day 6: Physical Exercise

#projectC61920 Day 6: Physical Exercise

Today is the second "physical" day on the journey, and it will focus on the two main types of exercises that we should include in our physical growth as a Christian: Cardio and weight training.

I Corinthians 9:26-27

Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

Cardiovascular/Aerobic. One of the most common exercises, but many times one of the hardest to implement is running. I hate running. I cannot stand the thought of getting tired going nowhere and running the risk of getting somewhere only to be too tired to run back to where you started. This is why cars were invented. Nevertheless, running has and continues to be a primary gauge of cardiovascular ability and overall health. Now, I have a medical condition in both of my feet that prevents me from being able to run for long distances or periods of time, so I substitute with cycling and elliptical at my gym. I may have to do more time on a machine than pounding the pavement, but it can accomplish the same thing. Other cardio exercises include swimming, walking, dancing, and active sports. Chose one of these and don’t cheat yourself; what you put into it is what you’ll get out of it.

Weight Training. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an anatomical specimen before you can feel accomplished. It is important to note the benefits of exercising with weights in addition to cardio training. It will make everyday physical tasks easier, and it will strengthen your bones. Alternatives to “free weights” (those intimidating iron barbells and dumbbells that seem to sneer at you just by sitting there) could be resistance bands and weight machines.

Don’t forget to get to get accountability for your work. Get a gym buddy (either spouse or same-gender friend) that won’t slack on you. They don’t have to be Mr. or Mrs. Universe either. In fact, often times, it’s the ones that need the most physical conditioning that will be the most motivated.

Two things about gym attendance:

1.      Don’t be intimidated by the extremely fit people you see at a gym. Chances are, they’ve been going there longer than you. And remember, if you’re sick, you go to a hospital. If you’re out of shape, you go to a gym. Do you ever mock a sick person at a hospital…?

2.      Watch your eyes against lust. Men, if you go to the gym. Keep your eyes where they should go. If it’s too much of a temptation, be a man and stop going. Ladies, keep your eyes the same. And consider your appearance when selecting public workout clothing. Are you helping or hindering your brothers in Christ by how you’re displaying your temple of the Holy Spirit?

A few closing notes on exercise:

·         Don’t let vanity set in (I Tim. 4:8).

·         Do it for the glory of God (I Cor. 10:31).

·         Push through the initial pain and stick with it even when you’re tired (Isa. 40:31).

·         Disciplining your body is a form of worship (Rom. 12:1).

·         Set goals and be master of your body (I Cor. 9:26-27).

#walkwithme