Discipleship in Community through Fitness in the UK
April 10, 2026
“Talking about evangelism and being on mission, it can feel quite daunting. But if it’s just doing something that you’re doing anyway, with some intentionality…with other people, there’s just this bond of encouragement that you have.”
Dan, pastor of Oikos Church in Birmingham, UK and a gentleman from his church, found a way to intentionally build a community around fitness and to meet other men who don’t know Jesus yet.
What started out with just two or three people from church has grown to become a larger group of other believers and non-believers alike. The men meet weekly at “crazy o’clock” in the morning to do fitness together. At the end of their time, one of the designated leaders shares a thought for the day, something personal, or a prayer.
Prayer is offered at the gatherings, and some men have opened up about problems in their personal lives. Through these weekly meetups, in addition to monthly socials for manly bonding, Dan has seen faith built and bonds made as the men learn more about each other.
Having accountability with other believers who have a heart to reach the lost has further encouraged Dan to be bold in sharing his faith like others. “Fitness is great. But also, there’s a need to know about your Lord and Saviour, Jesus.”