The Heart of GLOW: Fusion of Faith and Fitness

“My love language between me and the Lord is music,” beams Samie Jo Arnold , National Fitness Certified coach, and owner of GLOW - God Leading Our Wellness . If you walk into a GLOW fitness class lead by Samie Jo, you will likely encounter a burst of color from a curated collection of workout equipment and musical instruments, upbeat dancing to tunes of a funky Christian line dance, and a contagious energy that endorphins provide in the way of sweat and laughter. GLOW is a women’s fitness ministry that aims to foster holistic well-being: “We are not training for 6 pack abs. We are training for eternal purposes.”??

Every Tuesday evening for the past two years, Samie Jo has blessed women of all ages and abilities at City Rescue Mission with fun and uplifting dance fitness classes and Bible study, sharing the joy of the Lord through mentorship and movement. The goal is reclaim what the fitness world may have taken away from the essence of wellness, helping women to strengthen and love the gift that is their body. Through faith, fellowship, fitness, and fun, Samie Jo has created an atmosphere that breaks down barriers of comparison and inadequacy that often plague women, truly allowing them to make positive changes in mind, body, and spirit.?

Samie Jo's journey into the world of dance and fitness began at the age of four, evolving from studio classes to joining dance teams, eventually leading her to become the first pro bowl dancer for the Jacksonville Jaguars during their inaugural season. Her experiences on the field and coaching All-Star teams shaped her understanding of the transformative power of movement.?

For Samie Jo, dance has always been a powerful means of communication with the Lord. This connection deepened when she became a Zumba instructor sixteen years ago at her church. What began as a fitness-oriented class gradually transformed into a spiritual experience as she incorporated more Christ-based music. Her heart began to change, guided by the subtle whispers of the Lord helping her to realize that she needed to "tear down the Zumba altar” and put God at the center. This epiphany marked the birth of GLOW.?

Regardless of age, fitness level, or physical limitations, GLOW classes provide a wide range of adjustments and a diverse set of exercises that allow for anyone to join in on the fun and feel the burn. GLOW offers both short-term and long-term classes that give organizations the opportunity to care for their employees and community in a comprehensive way. Through fitness classes, nutritional guidance, and community support, GLOW is a catalyst for change and empowerment.

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Discover fellowship, wellness, and a vibrant community at Glowfam.org