Overcoming Aesthetics-Toward a Theology of Fitness

Right now I have a little side project going on that is putting together a newsletter for a friend of mine. While putting the newsletter together my husband gave me a little thing that he wrote a while ago that I think is a very fitting social commentary on fitness and he brings in theology two of my favorite subjects. Therefore I am posting it, below is what he wrote:

Some people have coffee, chocolate or pizza; my biggest weakness-Us Weekly. I can’t stand it.  I am constantly trying to avoid the magazine isle while shopping, but like any battle the war rages on multiple fronts.  Now, if we are honest with ourselves, we will admit that my problem is our problem.  How you ask?  Our problem is three fold, and it goes like this-the media, the mirror and our self esteem. 

Well, to be fair, Us Weekly is not the only source responsible for the rise and fall of our self esteem.  The movies, television, internet, as well as nearly every company in existence, tries to shape our view of ourselves-and ultimately our desires.  In some instances this shaping process is positive and enriches all of our lives.  However, in regards to our self esteem, the message sent could not be anymore negative.  Today one’s body image is pulled from one constantly changing ideal to the next, while at the same time offering up services and goods that distract from a healthy image of the body.  Because of this bombardment of our body image it is very likely that what we see in the mirror is not an accurate representation of who we really are.  Interestingly enough the same sources that tell us how imperfect we are, are quick to offer up a solution.  The form of which often comes in a slick, easy and most importantly of all “quick” answer to our most pressing problems.  Not surprisingly this is the route that fitness institutions have emphasized most.  Take a look at the fitness landscape and you’ll agree.  The number of fad diets, sensational workout videos and infomercials is at an all time high. Yet, lost in the high dollar marketing campaigns is a foundation of hard work, discipline or community which delivers long term substantial results.   

            “For in Him we live and move and have our being”-Act 17:28

In contrast, a theology of fitness sees everything around us a gift and grace from God.  And as with all of creation, we being included, the end or telos is to be found in the goodness of God.  It would be too simple, then, to say that God desires our heart, for in reality God wants all of us-bodies included.  With this perspective we see stewardship of the body as worship toward God.  Therefore, once our worship of God is in place will we see our bodies not simply as an opportunity for aesthetic gain, but rather as vessels of great importance.  So then, stewardship of the body is foundational to enjoying life to the fullest. For believers this means being used by God in many miraculous and adventurous ways.  Such ways speak to our soul and moves fitness beyond an endeavor of obsolescence and toward a lifestyle of fitness through movement.