The Youth Ministry of Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) officially launched a fitness video titled “ABAM Fitness Project” on June 20 at the Mokokchung Town Ao Baptist Arogo (MTBA) Youth Ministry Office.
The initiative has been introduced in recognition of the growing importance of physical fitness and healthy living, while promoting wellness from a Christian perspective.
ABAM stated that although June 21 has been observed globally as International Yoga Day since 2015 and yoga continues to be widely promoted for physical well-being, concerns remain among many Christians regarding its philosophical and spiritual roots in Hinduism. Discussions on the appropriateness of yoga for Christians have continued over the years, particularly in Nagaland and the North-East.
In response, the ABAM Fitness Project has been developed as a church-based fitness programme that encourages physical well-being while remaining aligned with Christian beliefs and values. Besides promoting health and fitness, the project seeks to offer a practical alternative that can be readily adopted by churches, educational institutions, offices and community gatherings.
Speaking at the launch programme, Youth Director of Mokokchung Town Ao Baptist Arogo (MTBA) Akangtemsü Yaden, described the initiative as a significant step toward encouraging physical wellness within the Christian community.
“It is a source of immense encouragement that the ABAM Youth Ministry is launching this fitness project as a constructive alternative that promotes physical well-being from a Christian perspective. While serving as a counter movement, this initiative highlights the importance of physical fitness as an essential aspect of Christian discipleship. Maintaining physical health through exercise, discipline and healthy living is not merely a personal benefit but an act of stewardship and obedience to God. I sincerely hope this video will inspire people to pursue holistic wellness, honouring God with both body and spirit,” he said.
ABAM also expressed appreciation to the Aoyimti Baptist Arogo Youth Ministry for producing the promotional video, as well as the MTBA Youth Ministry Media Team, Lean Wolf Gym, Impur Bible Seminary and Clark Memorial Higher Secondary School for their contributions toward the successful completion of the project.
The fitness video will be made available through ABAM’s official YouTube channel. According to the Youth Ministry, the project marks the beginning of a broader effort to encourage churches and Christian communities to actively promote physical fitness, healthy living and holistic discipleship.
