Exercise has been a constant in my life, driven partly by my profession and partly by a natural inclination towards sports. Over the years, I’ve frequented numerous gyms and observed a recurring cast of characters, each with their unique approach to fitness. These observations extend beyond the gym, prompting reflections on similar dynamics within other communities, including the church.
Here are some of the personalities you might encounter:
“Steroid Dude”: This individual exudes an aura of dominance, their body language practically screaming, “get out of my way.” They often prioritize heavy lifting and intimidating others.
“Certified Fitness Trainer”: A stickler for proper form, this person is always ready to offer unsolicited advice and motivate others to perform exercises correctly. Their intentions are good, but their approach can sometimes be overbearing.
“Forest Gump”: This endurance machine is a fixture on the treadmill, maintaining a steady pace from the moment you arrive until long after you leave. Their dedication is admirable, if a little robotic.
“Mr. Has Been”: Clinging to the glory days, this person still sports their high school gym shorts, a slightly outdated relic of their athletic past. They may offer unsolicited advice based on outdated training methods.
“Jug Carrying Water Guzzler”: Armed with a gallon jug of water, this individual constantly hydrates between sets, emphasizing the importance of hydration, perhaps to an extreme.
“Knit Cap Heavy Metal Man”: This imposing figure looks like they either play drums for Metallica or got incredibly fit while serving time in prison. Their intensity is palpable.
“Ms. Botox, Breast Augmentation Woman”: Dressed in outfits so tight and revealing, they often become a distraction for everyone around. Their focus seems to be more on appearance than actual fitness.
“Captain America”: Looking like they just graduated from a military service academy, this person embodies discipline and fitness. You’re just glad they are on our side.
“Troller”: For this person, the gym is merely an extension of the bar, a place to pick up dates. Flirting takes precedence over exercise, and their workout routines are often secondary.
“Dodgeball”: A combination of the “Troller,” “Mr. Has Been,” and “Steroid Dude,” this character embodies the worst aspects of gym culture. Think of Ben Stiller in the movie Dodgeball.
The gym, while intended as a place for health-conscious individuals, often develops an unspoken “pecking order,” where strength and fitness are placed at the top. This dynamic can also be observed in the church, where knowledge, attractiveness, and wealth can create a similar hierarchy. However, this should not be the case.
As Galatians 3:26-29 states:
“For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.”
While different roles exist within the church, no one should be considered superior to another. Our interactions within the body of Christ reflect the depth of our faith.
-Jim