By Christian Coffman

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — For residents looking to have a good workout for their bodies and their souls, New Covenant Presbyterian Church may have the answer.

The church offers a program called Faithful Fitness, which is at 10 a.m. Thursdays in Decker Hall.

A Bible study is held before each Faithful Fitness session. The study usually lasts between 20 and 30 minutes. Exercises after include Pilates, a full-body work out with body weights, yoga with some yoga props and stretching.

New participants should bring a mat and comfortable clothes.

Monica Wood and Roberta Duhs created the program to help train the body, mind and spirit of those who wish to join. The sessions are open to the public.

“I’m a personal trainer and want people to stay fit,” Wood said. “I’m always available for any questions people have about nutrition.”

Wood said most newcomers are on a diet or have medical issues so the sessions — which are usually no more than 10 people — are modified to fit the needs of participants. 

“I just see who comes up and modify the class around it,” she said.

Wood said she and Duhs got the idea for a fitness program after Wood received her trainer’s license.

“I’ve had tons of injuries due to racing,” Wood said. “I really see in a gym that there are many who are scared to start exercising or don’t know what to do, so I wanted to help them.”

The Rev. Seth Duhs said the sessions give participants a biblical perspective on how to take care of their bodies and glorify God at the same time.

“1 Corinthians 10:31 says, ‘So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God,’” the Rev. Duhs said. “We live in such a culture and world where your self-image is so important and it’s so easy to get distracted. Faithful Fitness backs up principles for godly living.”

Wood said Faithful Fitness is something God has blessed her with in dealing with anxiety.

“It’s a natural antidepressant,” Wood said. “It’s fun to see other people get involved in taking care of themselves.”

“God has given me a lot and I just want to pass it along,” Wood said.

The classes are free, as it is a volunteer service.

For questions about joining Faithful Fitness, contact Roberta Duhs at the church office at 601-445-5010.