Have you ever felt depleted the moment someone told you to workout or discouraged because you just don’t have the motivation to get a sweat in every day? You’re not alone if you answered, Yes, and I’m here to tell you that you can let all of that go!!

One thing that God has always wanted us to do with our body was to steward it in a way that allows us to be healthy and serve in his kingdom. The bible shows us in First Corinthians 6:19-20, that we need to glorify God in our bodies. So check out some of these tips to get you started on your fitness journey!

Start Small!

Exercise/Movement doesn’t have to require a sweat inducing hour-long workout six days a week. Movement is about starting small and listening to the needs of your body. There are so many low to high impact options depending on your fitness level. For example, if you are someone who hasn’t worked out much or has taken an extended period of time away from a fitness routine, start by walking or doing stretches once or twice a week. Walking is such a great way to get some low impact cardio in and time with a friend or in the word! But it’s important to find a workout and routine that doesn’t make you feel good in your skin.

Make it FUN!

It’s important to find a routine or class that brings you JOY! For some that could be dancing, cross fit, walking with friends, yoga or strength training. But whatever it is remember to choose a routine that you like and not something you do because it’s the next big thing! Exercising doesn’t need to be boring so if you feel like you’re in a fitness rut- write down some enjoyable activities and get moving, dancing in the living room and singing at the top of your lungs still burns calories and will be a guarantee to put a smile on your face!

Change your Mindset!

Most people view exercise as a chore rather than a way to build connection. So rather than thinking about what you HAVE to do, think about what you GET to do. It’s so important to view movement/exercise as an outlet to relieve stress, to get stronger in your body and mind, and to focus on creating healthy habits. If we constantly use movement as a punishment for food we ate or lack of activity then it won’t be sustainable and will remain a chore in our minds. So pray about having a renewed mindset and ask God to help you with a plan of action!

Steward your relationships!

I love using movement as a healthy way to connect with other people, moms and women! I find the fellowship you get from walking with friends is more powerful at times than actually walking or running for miles. The connections we all need get renewed and it can bring forth an opportunity to minister to others. So whether you meet face to face or through zoom, the options are endless to keep community and fellowship alive through movement.

Honor God!

I love the alone time that I get to spend with God! So many times I look forward to walking and worshiping, listening to an uplifting podcast, a previous church sermon or blasting heart pumping Christian tunes during an intense strength workout or just using the time to clear the cobwebs from the day so I can find a deeper time in the word after a workout is complete. However, you use the time, talk to him and seek him throughout.

God gave us each such unique bodies and created all of the life within us so we could live a good life, a life of power and encouragement, a life of strength and wellness. To honor him through our health journey is such a testament to who we are because it allows us the confidence to keep moving toward our goals in his kingdom. It encourages others around us intentionally or unintentionally and it allows us the opportunity to thank God for the body he has given each and everyone of us.