Total Body Workout: Why It's Important

One of the most common questions I hear is, “There are so many different types of workouts - how do I know what’s best for me?”

Here’s the honest answer: The best workout is the one you’ll actually do. It should be something you enjoy, but also something that gives your body what it truly needs.

A well-rounded workout plan should include these five components:

• Cardiovascular: Elevates your heart rate and breathing (e.g., fast walking, biking, dancing).
• Strength: Uses resistance - like dumbbells, resistance bands, or bodyweight - to build muscle.
• Core: Focuses on the muscles of your abs, back, and pelvic floor.
• Balance: Strengthens stabilizing muscles to reduce your risk of falling.
• Flexibility: Moves your muscles through their full range of motion to reduce stiffness and injury.

You don’t need to fit all five components into every single workout, but aim to work each area at least 3 times per week.

Sample Weekly Plan

Here’s an example of how to structure your week using Faithful Workouts:

• Day 1: Walk briskly for 25 minutes + 8 minutes of balance work
• Day 2: Faithful Workouts video (choose one that combines strength, cardio, and core)
• Day 3: Walk for 20 minutes + 10 minutes of upper body and core exercises
• Day 4: Faithful Workouts video
• Day 5: Bike ride for 25 minutes + 10 minutes of stretching and core work

We have over 500 free workouts at faithfulworkouts.com you can mix and match! You’ll find workouts of every level-chair, low impact, cardio dance, and more.

Overcoming Common Exercise Obstacles

“I don’t have time.” Try scheduling workouts like appointments-write them into your calendar. Even 10 minutes counts! Use short Faithful Workouts videos or sneak in movement throughout the day: park farther away, take the stairs, move faster when doing chores. Small efforts add up.

“I have young kids.”
Invite your children to join you! Walk together, talk while you stretch, or let them bike alongside you while you walk or jog. You’ll be modeling a healthy lifestyle and connecting in the process.

“It’s boring/I don’t enjoy it.”
I get it-but remember, it’s not always about what we feel like doing. Romans 7:18-19 reminds us that even Paul struggled to do what was right. When you don’t feel like exercising, reflect on why you want to be healthy: to serve God, to love others well, to feel strong and energized.

You can also make it more fun:

• Blast your favorite Christian music and dance


• Walk with a friend


• Join a small group


• Try a PAZAZ workout (faith-based cardio dance!)


• Play a sport or an active game

“I’m not overweight.”
Even if your weight is fine, you still need to exercise to be healthy. Being at a “healthy” weight doesn’t mean your muscles, bones, heart, and brain are thriving. Exercise improves your total well-being, inside and out.

“I’m injured.”
Don’t focus on what you can’t do-focus on what you can do. There are always safe options: chair workouts, one-armed movements, or simple stretches. Exercise promotes blood flow, speeds healing, and lifts your mood. Unless your doctor says complete rest, move in whatever way is safe.

“I’m too tired.”
Ironically, exercise is one of the best ways to gain energy. When you’re drained, try just 5 minutes of movement. If you still feel wiped out, stop. But most of the time, you’ll keep going and feel more energized.

“I’m too out of shape.”
Everyone starts somewhere. Don’t let shame or fear hold you back. Set small, realistic goals. Start with chair workouts or short walks. You’ll gain confidence, and with consistency, you will get stronger.

Final Encouragement

Your health journey is not just about fitness-it’s a step of obedience, stewardship, and faith. God calls us to care for our bodies not out of vanity, but so we can love, serve, and live well.

Remember: You’re not just working out-you’re worshiping through movement. And with Faithful Workouts, you never have to do it alone.