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Gaining popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, muscular Christianity has a unique history within Christianity.
Starting in England, the concept was simple: Christianity builds warriors in mind, spirit and physical well-being.
Prominent figures such as John Piper have encouraged good physical health, citing 1 Corinthians 6:19–20: “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
The original principles of muscular Christianity advocated for sports, a healthy diet and physical training, always connecting each aspect to devotion to God.
From Episcopal priest Hudson Stuck, who promoted American football among native Alaskans, to the YMCA’s teaching that athletics build teamwork and self-discipline, the movement sought to create a warrior mentality, shaping young men into Christian servants.
Later physical fitness leaders, such as Bob Hoffman of York Barbell, who trained at and equipped YMCAs, helped extend this broader tradition of strength and sport. Interestingly, the term “bodybuilding” (and the early use of “body-builder”) was popularized through the Christian muscular movement associated with the YMCA, and started at a local Boston YMCA chapter.
Muscular Christianity became appealing to both Protestants and Catholics, as well as to political figures.
President Theodore Roosevelt, influenced by the movement, argued for organized sports and even defended American football at a time when it was considered controversial because of its perceived dangers. Roosevelt went on record stating that sports like football and rugby built courage and toughness—virtues he believed essential for national character.
From 1 Corinthians 10:31, which teaches that whatever we eat, drink or do, we should do for the glory of God, to the fact that the human body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, the physical training of the body is essential. However, the disciplines, dedication, and teamwork that muscular Christianity emphasized remained just as important.
Biblical figures such as Joseph, Samson, David and Joshua help shape the concept of muscular Christianity. Modern athletes such as Tim Tebow embody a similar spirit, grounded in their faith and proven in their physical attributes.
In an age where secular society is denying gender roles and competition, muscular Christianity combats such logic and emphasizes Christ and the well-being of followers through athleticism.
In sports training, as in military and law enforcement training, a person is often taught the tenets of teamwork, perseverance, integrity and hard work.
The idea of muscular Christianity focused on building the soul and body together. If an athletic Christian could endure the rigorous training of football or boxing, he could apply his lessons to everyday life, becoming a determined husband, father and faithful follower of Jesus Christ.
In a society drifting from discipline and purpose, muscular Christianity reminds believers that the strength of the body and the strength of the soul are meant to honor the Lord together.
If muscular Christianity excels in one thing, it creates Christian warriors, determined to face darkness head-on.
