Messages about how “it’s Swimsuit Season” litter the magazine racks at the grocery store and social media feeds telling us it’s time to lose weight, firm up our butt and get the perfect body to squeeze into that bikini. In reality, there’s no need to do any of this. As long as you’re honoring and glorifying the Lord with your body, you’re going to look exquisite whether in a swimsuit or your regular summer attire. But, with a world bombarding us with these messages of being skinny, how can you convince yourself that you’re beautiful just the way you are? Well, you can’t. But, the Lord can. He wants to tell you every day that you’re beautiful and that He loves you.
Once you understand more about how God views your body, your desire to care for it and strengthen it will increase. Realize fitness isn’t about being a size 0, but rather it’s about living a healthy life that honors HIM. So, here are some ideas to help you take care of your beautiful body.
Err on the Side of Working Out Less.
Not working out enough has the same results as working out too much. That’s right – overtraining can stall progress. So, how do you know just how much is enough? Pay attention to your progress, or lack thereof. Don’t pay attention to it in pounds lost or dress size, but rather in inches around your waist, or how much you can lift, or how good you feel after a workout.
Nutrition is as Important as Exercise.
You must provide your body with adequate nutrition to build itself. If your fitness goal is increased strength or endurance, you’ll make few if any gains in the context of poor nutrition.
Chart Your Progress.
Set goals, both short-term and long-term, and set out to accomplish them. Buy a log book or download an app (there are many available for free) and make a habit of recording every workout. You won’t be able to see the end result unless you’ve tracked the journey getting there.
Get Adequate Sleep.
Make sleep a priority as much as possible. Without adequate rest, your body won’t recover from your daily stress, let alone your workout. Your muscles are growing while you sleep, provided there is adequate stimulus for growth and sound nutrition.
Create Community.
Connect with your coach or gym teacher. Learn from their fitness experience and knowledge. Ask them to help you meet your goals. They’re excited about your physical progress and emotional well-being as well.
Never Quit!
A well-timed hiatus from intense workouts is very different than quitting. In fact, we need intermittent breaks to help restore the body. You won’t gain a perfect perspective overnight, but don’t give up. God will help you endure so you can gain the end reward. Slow and steady progress inevitably yields a more positive outlook and better health.
Donate today so we can continue to make thought provoking content about living a healthy and God-honoring life.
