Exposing Popular Myths You May Believe About a Christian Walking Challenge
Exposing Common Myths Around Virtual Christian Walking Challenges
Have you ever wanted to join a challenge but doubted if you’re cut out for it? 🤔
Am I fit enough?
Spiritual enough?
Committed enough?
I understand, I’ve been there.
So what’s the answer?
We’re about to put the Forty Forty Challenge under a microscope, dig out these common misconceptions, and replace them with solid facts.
You shouldn’t be bogged down with misinformation or lies. By the end of this blog, I hope you have the clarity to confidently decide if the Forty Forty Challenge is right for you – a decision grounded in truth and facts.
Let’s jump right in with one of THE most common myths.
Myth: A Run/Walk Challenge is Only for Athletes
I get it! It can feel intimidating to join the stream of runners and walkers out in parks and on sidewalks. Isn’t exercise reserved for the athletic elite who effortlessly glide along with the grace of a gazelle? 🫤
Fact: My Christian Run/Walk is for ANY Fitness Level
The Forty Forty Challenge is not only meant for the fleet-footed few. It’s not about competing or measuring up.
John Ford, a certified exercise physiologist and owner of JKF Fitness & Health in New York City says, “I don’t scoff at walking. In fact, walking is the suggested workout over running for many people. For example, those with knee, ankle, and back problems and also for people who are overweight to obese. Walking is a lower impact exercise and can be done for longer periods of time.”
Regardless of where you fall on the fitness spectrum, you can adjust my virtual Christian walking challenge to suit your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
Let me show you what I mean.
You can…
- adjust your pace
- walk on an indoor treadmill or track
- break it up with high or low-intensity intervals
- change the terrain where you walk
Can’t run or walk? No problem! 🙌You can still participate in the virtual walking challenge by substituting walking with another exercise you can do for 20 minutes straight.
You don’t have to BE fit to get fit.
If you’re not in shape – that’s perfect! If you are in shape – that’s perfect! This challenge is for you, no matter where you find yourself in – or out of – the fitness world.
Myth: This Virtual Run/Walk is Only About Physical Fitness
Walking an hour every day? Group accountability? Sounds like a weight loss plan!
It’s easy to assume. After all, the word “challenge” conjures images of sweat-drenched workouts and conquered mile markers.
But this is only half the truth. While improving our physical health is a key component of the Forty Forty Challenge, there’s more to the story.
Fact: My Christian Walking Challenge Emphasizes BOTH the Physical and the Spiritual
The Forty Forty Challenge is about holistic wellness. 💪You not only nurture your body but also your spirit and your relationship with God. It’s about carving out sacred time with Jesus – reflecting, meditating, and finding fresh perspectives.
Stacy Reaoch, a well-written Christian author reflects, “When my body is not dragging me down, I find it less difficult to delight myself in the Lord. Exercise has a way of clearing the cobwebs from my brain and helping to hold my focus on the promises of Scripture. It wakes me up to more readily hear the sound of God’s voice through Bible reading and meditation.”
When I designed the Forty Forty Challenge, I intentionally chose to combine physical fitness and spiritual discipline. This Desiring God article outlines five Biblical reasons why exercise and spiritual growth go hand in hand.
- Exercise stewards the gift of our bodies. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
- Exercise enables us to serve others better. (Titus 2:14)
- Exercise keeps our brains alert and aware. (1 Peter 1:13)
- Exercise gives us new opportunities to share our faith with others. (1 Peter 3:15)
- Exercise teaches us to delight in the Lord. (Psalm 84:10)
So when you lace up your shoes and hit the trail, you not only burn calories, – though that’s a win! – you also actively embrace a deep, intimate relationship with Jesus. Over 40 days, you build solid Jesus habits – prioritizing God and keeping yourself healthy so He can use you any way He likes.
Myth: A 40-Day Walking Challenge is Too Time-Consuming
When you’re a busy parent, business owner, minister, or student, it can feel overwhelming to add another task to your schedule. After all, time is your most precious commodity! 🥵
There seems to be ZERO margin in your day-to-day, especially for a massive commitment like a 40-day walking challenge.
If you already struggle to prioritize time with the Lord or time for yourself, this next section is for you.
Fact: My Virtual Christian Run/Walk Challenge Only Requires 30 Minutes a Day
First of all, we need to take a moment to realize this 30-minute chunk is not just a pointless little walk. It’s an incredibly valuable investment in yourself – body, mind, and soul. In fact, it’s irreplaceable. Think of it as a sacred appointment with God, as set and serious as that parent-teacher meeting.
But what about all the other demands for your attention – work, family, social obligations? I’m a busy mother, business owner, and wife, so I know how real that is.
Here’s the thing: carving out 30 minutes to nourish your heart and soul isn’t selfish – it’s essential. By prioritizing your spiritual and physical health, you’re better equipped to show up for the people and responsibilities that matter most.
At the end of the day, my Christian walking challenge is NOT about adding more to your plate. It’s about reclaiming your intimacy with God and setting Him back on the throne every single day.
The time you invest in your health and your relationship with God is NEVER wasted.
Myth: A Christian Walking Challenge is Only For Spiritual Experts
You might be reading this and feel a little intimidated or unqualified.
“I don’t know much about God.”
“I haven’t had a regular devotion time.”
“I’m a brand new believer.”
“I’ve walked away from God.”
Maybe you haven’t spent years immersed in the Christian culture, churches, or deep theological conversations.
First of all, I want to say, AWESOME! I love that you’re here. Welcome to a safe space where it’s ok to be right where you’re at. Whatever insecurity or doubt you might feel right now, let me reassure you. You’re in the right place. 💞
Keep reading – this one’s for you.
Fact: My Virtual Christian Run/Walk Is For Anyone Who Desires More With God
Whether you’re a seasoned theologian, a total newbie to Christianity, or simply someone curious and searching for answers, you belong here. My Christian run/walk challenge requires no prerequisites, tests, or qualifications. 🤗
I like to think of the Forty Forty Challenge as a safe, private room where you experience God in your personal, unique way. I don’t expect you to learn certain lessons or talk to God in a particular way. You don’t need to come into it with any answers – in fact, I encourage you to bring all your questions!
I also don’t expect you to find your way alone. When you sign up for my virtual Christian walking challenge, I send you a package including:
- a thorough explanation of the challenge
- a daily Bible reading plan
- access to a wonderful accountability group
As you spend intentional time reading the Bible, God will speak to you. You’ll begin to see a transformation in your relationship with Him – even if it feels nonexistent right now.
Myth: A Virtual Walking Challenge is Isolating
It’s easy to imagine struggling through this challenge alone, pounding the pavement in silence with only your thoughts for company. After the pandemic, some of us are a little allergic to the thought of more social isolation.
The Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index surveyed American adults’ loneliness throughout the rise and fall of the pandemic. At least 25% of surveyed participants reported experiencing daily loneliness. In older adults, the Commonwealth Fund reports the percentage of lonely participants jumping from 27% to 56%.
Social isolation can lead to serious health concerns, especially for older adults. The CDC warns us of the increased risk of the following conditions:
- depression, anxiety, and suicide
- addiction
- dementia
- heart disease and stroke
- premature death
After watching our world come to a standstill, I don’t blame you for having this concern. Let’s explore the truth about the Forty Forty Challenge.
Fact: You Conquer My Virtual Christian Run/Walk With a Group
While it’s completely acceptable to run or walk alone in the Forty Forty Challenge, you don’t have to. If time alone is NOT refreshing to you, I encourage you to invite a friend, family member, or even your small group to join you. Those relationships will grow into unbreakable bonds as you spend time together daily focusing on God’s Word.
But inviting others is not the only element of community in my virtual walking challenge.
When you sign up, you gain access to an interactive, fun Facebook accountability group. It’s a virtual gathering place where people from all states come together to share their triumphs, struggles, and everything in between. This special group is all about inspiration, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on when you’re not feeling up to it.
I can’t wait for you to meet them! 🥳
What’s My Next Step?
Now that we’ve debunked myths many of us assumed to be true, I hope you’ve found peace and confidence in your decision about the Forty Forty Challenge. It’s designed for people of all ages, fitness levels, spiritual maturities, and personality types.
These doubts hold you back from experiencing true freedom in your health and your relationship with God. Don’t give them any more power to keep you from the abundant life God intends for you.
Sign up below to claim your spot in our next virtual walking challenge. Don’t put it off – you know as well as I do those things never get done. 😂