The body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. This means that it must be treated with due respect and responsible care. In a time when excessive weight gain is a real danger, Catholics must make a point of disciplining their bodies through exercise and diet. At the same time, some people can make an idol of fitness and bodily health. With any virtue, there is the danger of pride or vanity – and this is all too present in the world of fitness today.
I am convinced, however, that the responsible Catholic today will balance fasting with nutrition and humility with athleticism. The path of holiness is one that seeks the good to the contempt of self, but that does not just mean more asceticism. The body exists for the sake of the soul, and the soul’s powers depend on the wholeness of the body. The Catholic today must intentionally train his body, but without succumbing to vainglory.
