2014.06.20

Guest contributor, Fatima Moolla of Timeless Teenz shares her encouraging thoughts on staying permanently fit.

Take a peek into the past and we’ll make out that life wasn’t a beach. Humankind travelled long distances by foot to survive – to hunt and farm and in avoid wars. Thus they were naturally agile and very obviously fit. And us – well, no doubt, there is a downside to having everything instantly accessible and at the push of a button. The fast moving world we find ourselves living in leaves us with no time to reserve for fitness or athleticism. Distraction, entertainment and the vain recreation we enjoy, or even abuse in the 21st century has sadly resulted in lethargy and encourages laziness and obesity.

Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) said:

“A strong believer is better than a weak believer.” [As-Suyootee in Al-Jaami’us-Sagheer] 

As Muslims we are compelled to give are bodies equal rest and exercise as it is one of the most composite of systems given to us as a trust from Allaah. We are to take care of our spiritual, physical and emotional health. Allaah even made it compulsory upon us to pray the five daily Salah – its recommended movements involve all the muscles and joints of the body in a form of exercise – and concentration in Salah also relieves mental stress. AllahuAkbar!

Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) said: “Any action without the remembrance of Allah is either a diversion or heedlessness except four acts: walking from target to target (during archery practice), playing with your family, training a horse and learning to swim.” [abu Daud Sharief ]

Youth who are energetic and vibrant should at least engage in swimming, horse riding and archery. These are all fun past times while adhering to the Sunnah and engaging in thikr. Imam Ibnul Qayyem (RA) stated that each bodily organ has its own sport (or movement) that suits it and that horse riding, archery, wrestling and racing, are sports that benefit the whole body.

Apart from that, our bodies are in need of a bit of a workout. Going to the gym is an option, provided there is no intermingling of genders and proper Islamic attire that covers the entire satar. Exercise increases muscle tone, improves flexibility, enhances endurance, strengthens the heart and fights depression. Exercise also helps achieve significant weight loss. Aerobic exercise fights heart disease and high blood pressure, and reduces the risk of diabetes, while weight training increases muscle strength and reduces fat, increases bone density, fights back pain and arthritis, and improves overall mental health.

There are so many alternatives to gym. Forming a ladies fitness group or recruiting a personal coach are examples were you can keep fit in the confines of your home or secluded area. In order to attract angels and prevent your actions from being heedless, I suggest a rectification of intention and a good Dhikr workout on your iPod or listening device.

Our religion is so beautiful. Islam cultivates that which revives the body, mind and soul, provided it does not involve sin or obstruct and hinder religious obligations. The conventions of Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) undoubtedly encourage involvement in sporting activities as a way to promote a healthy lifestyle and encourage mutual affinity and family togetherness. This is sadly slipping away in this modern day and age.

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