Tips for someone who is just starting an exercise program
By Rev. Dave Scavuzzo,
Western Reserve District Superintendent
• Start slow.
Most people try to go out and do too much especially too quickly. People should be able to run or walk at a pace where they can look around and sense God’s presence and think and pray rather than to obsess about survival or counting down the minutes of fractions of miles until they are done with the torture.
• Pick a partner.
We can do more together than apart. As Wesleyan Christians we know that we can be more in community than alone. We can run (literally and metaphorically) further and faster with the help of others. Even to have plans to meet a friend once every week or every other week to lend accountability, encouragement, companionship and motivation to get up on those cold or raining mornings.
• Set a goal.
A date on the calendar with the goal to participate in some communal run keeps me going on dark, frigid days.
• Cherish your surroundings.
I find little shadows of heaven in the outdoors and all of scripture speaks of God’s great love for us and life. I especially think of ‘Why do you seek the living among the dead?’ (Luke 24:5) A question of Jesus that haunts me daily ... whispering that there is more of real abundant life and health than I have yet found or sought. |
