While it’s clear that regular exercise brings numerous benefits for both body and mind, there’s an ongoing discussion about the intersection of fitness and Christian values. Some people caution that an excessive focus on physical fitness can veer into “idol worship.” Tim Keller, in his book “Forgery Gods: Promises of Money, Gender, Power’s Sky, and the One Important Hope,” highlights this as anything that holds more significance than God in one’s life.
Interestingly, some, including Christian bodybuilder Hunter Sprague and a trio of fathers from Texas, adopt a more balanced viewpoint. After his time with a Christian ministry, Sprague channeled his love for fitness into the Monolith Movement—an initiative intended to help men harmonize their faith and workout regimes.
In an engaging interview, Sprague expressed that maintaining physical health, for him, relates closely to spirituality, a notion rooted in scripture. He did acknowledge Gnostic ideas from the early centuries, which minimized the value of the physical body. “If you are saved or enlightened, your body doesn’t matter,” he remarked, reflecting on that belief.
“Our bodies are important.”
However, Sprague has found a way to merge his physical fitness journey with his faith. He believes in the significance of our bodies, stating, “Our physical world was created.” He feels strongly that if God intended for us not to have bodies, we simply wouldn’t.
“I think God used fitness to illuminate many truths for me,” he added. “My spiritual faith can’t exist in a vacuum; I need that experiential power.” To him, exercise serves as a way to honor the stewardship of our bodies—the gifts we’ve been given.
Sprague describes his fitness philosophy as a management issue: “How do you utilize your body’s capabilities out of love for the Lord and strive to please Him?”
Healthy Life Tips
In his fitness regimen, Sprague emphasizes a blend of strength training and aerobic activities. He pointed out that many equate fitness solely with weight loss, but there’s more to it than just that. “If you’re shedding pounds without building muscle, you’re not doing yourself any favors,” he advised.
Experts agree that strength training is particularly crucial today, amid rising obesity rates. Sprague dedicates three to four days a week to weightlifting, acknowledging that it requires persistent effort. Achieving results isn’t automatic; it’s about self-improvement week by week.
For aerobic workouts, he suggests exploring ways to incorporate more movement into daily routines. “Increasing your steps can make a huge difference,” he explained, noting the significant boost in energy and mood that comes with reaching higher goals.
Walking, he noted, is an excellent starting point—not only is it easy to begin, but it also promotes better brain health and digestion. Incorporating a variety of enjoyable activities is equally important in maintaining motivation.
When it comes to nutrition, Sprague follows a “modular diet,” prioritizing lean proteins, vegetables, and some carbohydrates. He tracks his diet, especially when aiming for specific personal goals, emphasizing clarity.
“Beware of God’s goodness.”
For those who wish to honor their bodies as well as their faith, Sprague believes it’s essential to appreciate the significance of our physical existence without allowing it to be the sole source of happiness. He reflected on the constant chase for satisfaction, saying, “There’s this nagging feeling that you should always do more.” Yet, he finds joy in the process itself, stating that his identity isn’t solely tied to his physical achievements.
Furthermore, he encourages recognizing divine goodness in fitness, explaining, “God created the chemical responses that make you feel accomplished.” Ultimately, Sprague emphasizes that inviting God into this journey enhances the experience.
In conclusion, setting clear goals and dedicating time and effort are key elements for anyone looking to succeed in their fitness journey. As Sprague advises, getting started is all about consistent effort, and integrating faith can make the journey all the more fulfilling.
