logo
episode-header-image
Nov 2022
9m 48s

A Theology of Working Out

ASCENSION
About this episode

Let's talk about exercise!

Today Fr. Mike challenges us to re-evaluate the way we treat and view our bodies as well as to compare the difference between doing a workout and training whether for a race, competition or towards a goal and that same approach to growing in the spiritual life.

Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Up next
Sep 10
Fulton Sheen Changed My Life
On Thursday September 24, 2026, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be beatified! Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Fulton Sheen has changed his life through the books he wrote, stories he told and the heroic virtue he exemplified. Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, pray for us 🙏 
11m 33s
Sep 3
Overwhelmed by Your Responsibilities?
"If only I had wings like a dove that I might fly away and find rest... But I will call upon God, and the LORD will save me." Psalm 55:7, 17 Do you find yourself in the same spot as David? Whether it's just a season or you've been feeling it for a while, Fr Mike Schmitz reminds u ... Show More
9m 17s
Aug 27
Is God Calling You to a Vocation You Don’t Want?
One of the scariest questions we can ask ourselves is, "What's God's will for my life?" Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that God will never call us to a vocation that we don't want. Even though God has a plan for your life, He is good and will not force you to say yes to something yo ... Show More
9m 47s
Recommended Episodes
Mar 2024
Can Christians Work Out to Look Good?
Fitness is a pretty big deal in the culture today. Whether it's diet, working out, or supplementing, many people invest their time and money in it. But what is their motivation? Fr. Josh Johnson and Deacon Michael Parker discuss the goals of fitness and what sort of motivation sh ... Show More
23m 28s
Jun 2020
Why We Train
In this weeks Ep we talk about the difference between exercise and training, the good & the bad about home training and the mental benefits of working out. 
53m 12s
Jan 2024
Fit To Finish // Start Sharp (Part 4) // Michael Todd
Are you fit to finish what God has called you to do? In Week 4 of the Start Sharp Series, Pastor Mike preached a word that is 7 years in the making. As he shared his fitness journey, he made the connection of how it was truly a journey of spiritual growth as well. God has a plan ... Show More
1h 5m
Feb 2019
Why Are You Training/Working Out!? Finding Your Motivation & Drive!
It's time for some self reflection and honesty... why are you training!?In today's episode we discuss our own personal reasons that inspire and motivate us everyday to exercise and move our bodies. We also reflect on our past and peers, and pose the question... is there the perfe ... Show More
39m 41s
Aug 2021
066. What Comes to Mind When You Hear the Word Exercise?
In today's episode, Dylan talks about assessing your relationship with exercise and whether it's coming from a place punishment or nourishment. Exercise can be a great part of your weekly routine, but it's important to check your motivation for why you are exercising and why you ... Show More
16m 50s
Sep 2023
Physical Fitness Is a Gift from God, Not an Idol | Christian Huff & Earl McClellan
Christian and Earl McClellan, Pastor of Shoreline Church in Dallas, TX, share a bond for physical fitness and sports. Christian and Earl understand the temptation to idolize the physical, but find that dedicating time and effort to the Lord each day helps keep them grounded. They ... Show More
1h 2m
Dec 2025
discipline vs. motivation
my experience with exercise, past body image issues, where I’m at now, finding motivation etc. 
24m 20s
May 2024
Of Strength and Soul: Exploring the Philosophy of Physical Fitness
When you’re lifting weights, you might be thinking about setting a new PR or doing your curls for the girls.But throughout history, philosophers have thought about physical fitness on a deeper level and considered how exercise shapes not only the body, but also the mind and the s ... Show More
57m 31s
May 2025
Introduction to Mindfulness: Mindfulness of Thoughts – Part 4
<p>This talk examines how the trance of thinking imprisons us, veiling our full aliveness, love, and spiritual essence. Through contemplative reflections and short guided practices, we'll explore pathways to awaken from this trance and open to the light, awareness, and wholeness ... Show More
53m 54s