Christian Fitness: Unlock Biblical Truths to Transform Your Health and Wellness

Estimated Reading Time: 10 Minutes

From an early age, we’re encouraged to move our bodies, to stay active, and to embrace a lifestyle of health. But as life gets busier, it’s easy for other responsibilities to take over, making it tough to find that balance.

At Worship in My City, we believe caring for our physical health is a beautiful way to honor God. It’s about more than exercise; it’s about flourishing—emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

God cares about every part of our lives, including how we treat our bodies. But sometimes, there’s a temptation to take things too far, leading us to prioritize physical health in a way that overshadows our spiritual growth. That leads some to wonder–is working out a sin? And what does the Bible say about fitness and health?

In this post, we will explore the answer to these questions and by reviewing Bible verses about fitness and health. That way, you will have insights that will nurture your body, mind, and spirit in a way that aligns with God’s design for your life.

What Does the Bible Say About Fitness?

While the Bible may not directly speak on fitness routines, it does offer us wisdom on how to care for our bodies.

We’re reminded in Scripture that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit—a sacred dwelling place. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we’re told, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”

Friend, this verse makes it clear that your body is precious. Our bodies have been purchased with a price, and they are entrusted to us by God. Don’t you think they are worthy of care and respect?

When we embrace the stewardship of our health, we honor God not only with our hearts and minds but with our physical being. It’s through nurturing this temple that we find the energy, clarity, and strength to live out the unique calling that He has on our lives. When we care for ourselves, we are equipped to serve others, pursue our purpose, and glorify Him in all we do. That is exactly what we are instructed to do in 1 Corinthians 10:31:

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

You see, caring for our bodies isn’t about vanity or perfection. (Although it can be if we take it too far, of course.) Rather, it’s about stewardship—honoring the gift God has given us and embracing the discipline, perseverance, and self-care that come with it.

We are, after all, made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), called to reflect and serve Him in all that we do.

I love how Pastor Rick Warren describes the importance of taking care of our bodies:

“God created it. Jesus died for it. The Spirit lives in it. I better take care of it.”

By tending to our health, we position ourselves to love more deeply, serve more fully, and pour into every area of our lives with renewed strength.

And although the Bible may not outline specific fitness routines, it does offer Bible verses about fitness and health–wisdom that guides us in caring for our bodies. Let’s explore those below.

Bible Verses About Fitness and Health

 

    • 1 Timothy 4:8: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things.”

In this verse, Paul recognizes the importance of physical fitness, but he reminds us that while caring for our bodies has value, nurturing our relationship with God has eternal significance. Godly training should be prioritized over physical training. Yes, both physical and spiritual health are essential, but our spiritual growth remains the foundation of everything we do.

 

    • Proverbs 31:17: “She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.”

This verse highlights the strength and vitality of the Proverbs 31 woman, illustrating how physical wellness equips us for the tasks God places before us. While we’re not called to perfection, we are encouraged to steward our health so we can serve our families, communities, and God with energy, purpose, and clarity.

 

    • 3 John 1:2: “I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

This heartfelt prayer captures God’s desire for us to thrive—physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Good health is a blessing, allowing us to live with joy, energy, and purpose, aligning our lives with God’s perfect will.

Embracing physical fitness is not just a way to honor God; it’s also a powerful catalyst for enhancing our emotional and mental well-being—ultimately expanding our ability to serve and impact God’s Kingdom. Let’s explore how this connection unfolds.

The Impact of Physical Health on Your Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Staying in shape isn’t just about honoring God with our bodies—it’s a journey that profoundly nurtures our mental and emotional well-being, empowering us to fulfill our role in furthering the Great Commission.

Physical health and emotional balance are like two dancers moving in harmony. When we engage in regular exercise, we’re not merely sculpting our muscles; we’re also nurturing our minds and hearts, preparing ourselves to fulfill our roles in the Body of Christ.

You probably already know this, but science reveals that physical activity releases endorphins—those delightful “feel-good” hormones that wash away stress and uplift our spirits. 1 By prioritizing self-care through movement, we not only cultivate our own well-being but also become more equipped to care for others, presenting our best selves to the world. Matthew 22:29 reminds us to “love your neighbor as yourself.” How can we fully love our neighbors if we do not yet love ourselves?

By incorporating movement into our daily routines, we are engaging in a form of self-care that enhances mental resilience.

According to the American Psychological Association, engaging in regular physical activity can significantly diminish feelings of anxiety and depression, allowing us to navigate life’s stresses with grace and clarity. 2

Plus, the Bible instructs us to “renew our minds” (Romans 12:2), and caring for our physical health is a powerful, practical step in this transformative journey. When our bodies are energized and strong, we often discover that our emotional and mental states reflect that vitality, and we can then approach our daily tasks with a clear and focused mindset.

You can create a Christian fitness routine, one that is a refreshing time that you look forward to–an opportunity to release the day’s worries while deepening your connection with the Holy Spirit. 

As we nurture our physical health, we lay a strong foundation for mental and emotional wellness. A cared-for body equips our minds and spirits to embrace life’s challenges.

However, let’s remember that, like any good gift, our health can become an idol if we place it above God. Because of the addiction to fitness that many believers have created, this has led people to wonder, is working out a sin? 

This is why finding balance is so essential on this journey of wellness…

Is Working Out a Sin?

No, working out is not inherently sinful—in fact, Scripture shows us that taking care of our bodies is beneficial. So, where do the misconceptions come from about fitness being vain or even sinful?

It often stems from the fear that fitness can become an idol. To discern whether this has happened, we need to look within and evaluate our hearts.

The key question is: Why do we work out? Are we turning to fitness to find fulfillment, peace, or worth—things we were meant to seek in Christ? Are we working out to honor God and care for the body He’s entrusted to us, or are we doing it for self-glorification or the approval of others?

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look and feel our best, but if we find ourselves obsessed with working out to gain affection or attention from others, we may need to realign our hearts. When we crave approval from people instead of seeking to please God, it’s a sign that something else has taken His place in our hearts and lives. As Galatians 1:10 reminds us, we are called to please God, not men.

Fitness becomes sinful when it’s used to glorify ourselves or when pride creeps in. If we’re more focused on how strong we’ve become or how we appear to others, we may be falling into the trap of seeking attention and praise that belongs to God alone.

So, how can we approach our Christian fitness routine in a way that honors God?

The answer lies in balance and intention. We can work out in moderation, with a heart set on pleasing God, ensuring that our spiritual health always comes first. 

Regularly checking in with God, examining our motives, and committing to care for our bodies as an act of worship will help us maintain a healthy relationship with fitness. By keeping our hearts pure, we can use exercise as a tool to live our healthiest lives, be the best version of ourselves, and fulfill the purpose God has given us—all while honoring Him through our bodies.

How to Pursue Fitness in a Christ-Centered Way

Pursuing fitness with a Christ-centered approach invites balance, intention, and faith into every step. So how can you keep Christ at the center of your fitness journey?

Here are some creative and inspiring ways to infuse your workouts with faith:

 

    1. Incorporate prayer and worship into your Christian fitness routine. Consider going on peaceful prayer walks or listening to uplifting praise music as you do cardio. You could even tune into the Bible app, Christian podcasts, or sermons while you exercise, transforming your workout into a time of spiritual growth. At Worship in My City, we offer tools and resources–such as recommended podcasts–that can help you invite the Holy Spirit into this process. You can check out our platform here. As you incorporate movement into your daily routine, invite the Lord to strengthen your body, spirit, and mind. This makes each workout an opportunity to reconnect with God and dedicate your physical body to Him.

    1. Set fitness goals that align with spiritual growth. For example, listen to Scripture while walking on the treadmill and aim to complete a set number of chapters along with your miles. This approach not only boosts your physical health but also nurtures your spiritual well-being.

    1. Use fitness as a powerful tool to build discipline and stewardship. Just as strengthening your muscles takes effort and consistency, working out can symbolize the spiritual growth you’re pursuing in your character and faith. Regular exercise helps you practice discipline, which can overflow into all areas of your life. And, with the added benefit of mental clarity, fitness equips you to stay sharp and attentive to God’s purposes.

By caring for your body with intention, you’re not just honoring God physically—you’re aligning your entire being with His greater plan for your life.

Final Thoughts

God crafted you with purpose—your body, your soul, and your spirit, all designed with love to make a lasting impact in this world for Him. Psalms 139:13–16 (MSG) beautifully reminds us of this divine truth:

“Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation!”

You, my friend, are truly a masterpiece, created to glorify God in every aspect of your life, including how you care for your body. 

At Worship in My City, we’re here to help you embrace this sacred responsibility with joy and ease. That’s why we’ve created a special resource just for you—a curated checklist to support your spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional well-being. You can download it here and let it guide you on your journey toward holistic health and spiritual growth.

You can also find support and accountability for your health journey by connecting with our community at Worship in My City.

Caring for your body is more than just physical; it’s a reflection of how you honor God in your life. By learning more about what the Bible says about fitness, and integrating your health into your spiritual journey, you’ll find a beautiful balance where fitness becomes an act of worship.

I believe in you. Whether you’re starting fresh or continuing your path, you have what it takes to pursue Christian fitness with purpose—for His glory and your growth. Let’s walk this journey together.

Citations

 

    1. “Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress”

       

        1. Source: MayoClinic

    1. “Working out boosts brain health”

Source: American Psychological Association