Mark 6:7 And HE called to HIM the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. [Revised Standard translation]
Luke 10:1 After this the LORD appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where HE HIMSELF was about to come. [Revised Standard translation]
BIBLICAL COMMENTS
When JESUS commissioned HIS disciples to go out and minister to others, HE sent them in pairs. He wanted them to partner with one another so they could support each other, encourage each other and exemplify unity. When one was weak, the other could pray. Each would be there to help the other, should one stumble or fall. There is strength in unity.
The church was never meant to be individualistic or isolative. We were never meant to go it alone. 1 Corinthians 12 tells us that the church is "a body," with many parts. We are "one body." We are together to accomplish ONE WILL- HIS WILL. We are all filled with "ONE SPIRIT." We are to help one another as "one body" in CHRIST.
PARTNERING FOR HEALTH
Gym Classes
Whatever our fitness goals might be, none of us need go it alone, when it comes to physical fitness. We can all partner for health. Sometimes partnership may involve taking classes. Many gyms offer a number of classes including: Zumba, yoga, Pilates, weight training (i.e., pump), cycle (i.e., spin), boot camp, aqua, (i.e., pool/swim), silver sneakers (for seniors), U-Jam fitness, boxing, turbo kick, and bar method. Most gyms will provide you with a tour and a schedule of classes upon request. Many of the gym schedules are online. Some gyms will even provide you with a free guest pass for a day or two, to allow you to "sample" the gym atmosphere so you can determine if the gym and the classes are right for you.
When you observe a class or take one for the first time, it may seem that everyone knows how to move "but you," however, it is important to remember that it will take time. Most classes involve a learning curve, learning the moves, learning proper form and getting into conditioning or reconditioning your body. Just like "kindergarten," it may take a few days before you are entirely comfortable. But, most instructors are friendly, happy to have you in class, will usually answer questions after class and, in general, are extremely patient and helpful. After all, that is their job—to help you increase your physical fitness and have an enjoyable experience!
Personal Training
Sometimes you may need more than just joining others in the gym or taking a class. You may need personal training. A personal trainer can be used to motivate you to come regularly to the gym, provide you with the right techniques to prevent injury, help you identify training goals, assess your level of fitness, set up a training program, or take you to "the next fitness level." According to WebMD, finding a personal trainer is much like finding a gym. You may have to interview the person. Find out their philosophy about physical fitness. There is usually a consultation before actual training begins. The trainer will want to know about your expectations too, so don't expect the trainer to do all of the talking.
Don't make assumptions about sex. Male and female trainers can be equally capable, so don't discriminate by sex. Also, picking a trainer based on "looks" usually is not the best indicator of whether that particular trainer is "right" for you. Some trainers develop specialties. One trainer's specialty may be weight lifting. Another trainer may have more specialized training in dealing with injuries. Review the trainer's bio. Most importantly, check the trainer's certification:
Make sure your personal fitness trainer has been certified by at least one of the major national organizations, such as the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Council on Exercise, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, or the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
See, "Finding A Personal Trainer: How to Get the Best Match between Your Trainer and Your Personal Goals," www.webmd.com, by Christopher O'Leary, reviewed by Louise Chang, MD.
Many gyms have a number of personal trainers. Ask around. Talk to people who have trained with the person you are considering. Some gyms offer training packages, especially to new members. Make sure you know and understand the price of the training before beginning.
If you have a medical condition, as always, consult your personal physician prior to starting any personal training to determine if medically supervised physical therapy might be a better alternative.
PARTNERING FOR PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL HEALTH
Our church fellowship is also a partnership ---a prayer, information and activities partnership. Every prayer counts. So, please keep praying! We also have a number of classes (e.g., exercise classes and Bible study classes) and ministries you can sample or join.
Every effort you make to improve your physical and spiritual health strengthens the "body of CHRIST." So, continue to encourage others and yourself. "Don't get weary of well-doing!" (Galatians 6:9) Every effort counts. We are all in this together!*
Be faithful, be vigilant and Be Blessed!
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*For those of you who can, please join us on Sunday, February 23, 2014 at 1:30 PM (after second service), at Allen Temple Baptist Church, 8501 International Blvd. Oakland, CA 94621. Ruben Vaughan, a personal trainer, will be conducting an exercise class in the FLC gym for "Love Yourself During the Month of February." All February after second service exercise classes are free!
