How Fit Are You?

A recent LA Times headline reads, “State Youths Flunk Fitness Exam”. Of one million school children in
California tested, only a mere 23% were considered physically fit. The fitness test included pull-ups, push-ups, and running a mile as fast as possible. The results of the fitness exam translates to almost 80% of school children being out of shape and mostly overweight. Diabetes is on the rise, academic scores are poor, and health costs are soaring as a result of low physical fitness.
The poor health of students are attributed to the decrease in emphasis of physical education at school, high salt, sugar, and fat diets, and the sedentary lifestyle at home. Instead of playing ball, running in the park or riding bikes, children are staying indoors watching TV and videos, and playing on the computer and Gameboys. Health experts believe that physical fitness has a direct link to academic progress. “There is a tie between healthy minds and healthy bodies. Kids are probably going to be more sluggish in the classroom if they are unfit,” says California Dept. Of Education Consultant Debbie Vigil. Academic scores in reading, math and writing will improve if students improve on their overall health.
There is a definite correlation between mind and body. If children and adults are physically unfit, their minds will be cloudy and lethargic as well. We need our minds clear not only for academics, but more importantly, to understand the spiritual things of God. Our Lord speaks to us through His word and by the Holy Spirit. Our body was designed to be the very temple for the Holy Spirit to dwell. I Cor. 6:19,20 says, “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
Physical fitness for children and adults alike is extremely important and beneficial in our academic progress, work, and in our relationship with God. Take time to eat right and exercise. Your mind and body will reward you a hundredfold.
Ly Lan Nguyen