# A Theology of Exercise: Why Christians Should Train Their Bodies for God's Glory

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/dial-in-with-jonny-ardavanis-460773/a-theology-of-exercise-why-christians-should-train-their-bodies-for-god-s-glory
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/dial-in-with-jonny-ardavanis-460773/a-theology-of-exercise-why-christians-should-train-their-bodies-for-god-s-glory.md
Podcast: [Dial In with Jonny Ardavanis](https://stenobird.com/podcast/dial-in-with-jonny-ardavanis-460773)
Published: 2026-07-07T10:45:00+00:00
Episode link: https://www.dialinministries.org
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/a9195242-da2d-4f61-b83d-edae59770634.mp3
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Duration seconds: 2611

## Resource

What does the Bible actually say about exercise, fitness, and taking care of your body? In this conversation, a Desiring God pastor and author David Mathis unpacks a biblical theology of exercise — covering the six-layer biblical story of the human body (creation, the fall, the incarnation, the indwelling Holy Spirit, obedience, and future glorification), how to think about 1 Timothy 4:8 ("bodily training is of some value"), and why sedentary modern life and body-idolatry are two ditches to avoid. This episode is brought to you by our ministry partner Accountable2You. Join thousands living in freedom with nothing to hide, and visit https://accountable2you.com/dialin. Use our unique code DIALIN to get 25% off your first year of an Accountable2You Personal or Family Plan Topics covered: • Why exercise matters for the mind, will, joy, and love of others • Bodily discipline and Christian stewardship of the body • The connection between physical exercise and mental clarity (John Ratey's "Spark") • Competition, sports, and a Christian view of winning and losing • Practical advice for sedentary Christians who want to start exercising • How pastors and knowledge workers can build sustainable fitness habits • A theology of the body: from creation to resurrection Great for anyone interested in Christian living, biblical theology, faith and fitness, health and wellness from a Christian worldview, or building sustainable exercise habits for the long term (a "ten-year plan," not a quick fix). 📖 Learn more and find the book at DesiringGod.org

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## Transcript

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