MeritCare's "Faithfully Fit Forever" program
I took a workshop on this program today at the Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly, and was quite enthused. Training for a leader is only $25 or so, and it's a fun, low-impact exercise routine that incorporates scripture study and nutritional tips for participants. I enjoyed doing the exercises, and am very seriously considering taking the course so I can start a class here in Litchville.
posted by Bob at
12:31 AM
4 Comments:
Wow! That is a GREAT idea, something LONG overdue- I read somewhere that diabeties (i can't spell) is the #1 killer of pastors. As I have that in my genetics, I'm scared of it. What is the website for this program, and is it open to non-Lutherens?
By
SWMM, at 12:27 AM
Hi - thanks for reading! =)
The link was in the blog entry's header - it's http://www.meritcare.com/specialties/heart/programs/faithfullyfit.asp. The program is non-denominational. I imagine the Bible studies are fairly neutral, and are written from a theological viewpoint that ought to be acceptable to pretty much any Christian.
Fitness is a huge concern for church leaders - I remember a presenter who observed that the ELCA's medical insurance pays out a tremendous amount each year just for antidepressant medications. Figure in the toll diabetes, overweight, heart problems, and other ailments take, and it's clear that our clergy are among the least healthy people in the congregation. I know my own health is not what it should (or could) be.
That's part of the appeal of this program to me. Not only does it get some parishioners in for a little exercise, fellowship, and Bible study, but it also means that I, as the leader, would be committed to exercising regularly. ;)
I also imagine using this as a community ministry tool. It would be wonderful to put an ad in the paper and invite anyone who would like to spend 45 minutes or so in light exercise to come on down to the church. Litchville is small and has nothing resembling a gym, so this might well meet an unspoken need in our community.
Let me know if you decide to implement FFF in your church, and how it goes! I'd love to hear back from you.
Again, thanks for reading.
Blessings,
-B.
By
Bob, at 10:41 AM
In 1960 I started some Christian yoga exercises; they have stood me in good stead.
Besides that tennis will make/keep you trim. Takes little time.
By
Larry, at 2:13 PM
I just read your April entry and now it's July. Did you get started in the program and have you stayed with it? What are the results? We have a healthy living and weight-loss program we started at my church last fall. 20 of us lost over 350 pounds the first 15 week session, and 25 lost over 500 pounds the second session. We hope to have 50 at the next session. I'm looking to start something for ministers in our denomination. I'll have to check out FFF.
By
Lynn, at 11:27 AM
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