Faith and Fitness: Saman Munir's Journey

Thirty minutes into perfecting that push-up and you're ready to give up. Your mind screams "quit," but then you remember—you're a Muslim woman. You whisper a dua and keep going.

In Islam, caring for your body isn't about vanity or checking off gym goals. It's a sacred responsibility.

The body is an amānah—a trust from Allah (swt). This means you're not just living in it, but actively responsible for nurturing and protecting it.

Exercise transforms from calorie counting and aesthetic goals into a way of honoring your health and expressing gratitude for the gift of your physical form.

True wellness encompasses the physical, mental, and spiritual. A stronger body often creates a calmer mind, and a peaceful mind opens space for deeper spiritual connection.

As part of the 'Ask a Muslim Girl' series, Cosmopolitan Middle East spoke with Saman Munir, a Pakistani-Canadian fitness influencer and personal trainer.

For over seven years, she's been creating a space where women—especially Muslim women—feel seen, celebrated, and empowered through the intersection of faith and fitness.

For Saman, this journey was never just about workout routines. After rediscovering fitness at 37, she now helps women redefine strength while spiritually honoring their bodies.

As a personal trainer, fitness influencer, content creator, and motivational force, Saman is paving a path for women who want it all, regardless of their life stage.

Connecting Faith and Fitness

Cosmo ME: How do you blend fitness with faith?

Saman: For me, fitness and faith are inseparable. In Islam, our bodies are considered a trust from God, and we're responsible for caring for them. That means nourishing them properly, keeping them active, and avoiding neglect.

Training isn't purely physical for me—it's mental and spiritual practice. When I'm lifting weights or pushing through challenging workouts, I see it as cultivating discipline and patience, both qualities our faith teaches us to develop.

I often incorporate dhikr (remembrance of Allah) into my workouts, even if it's just silently saying "Alhamdulillah" for my body's ability to move.

I also view fitness as a way to increase longevity and energy so I can serve others—my family, community, and deen. When I have health and strength, I can show up more fully in every area of life.

Getting Started with Strength Training

Cosmo ME: What are your top tips for Muslim women interested in strength training?

Saman: Master the fundamentals first. Focus on learning proper form for foundational movements before anything else.

Once you feel confident with technique, you can safely add weight. Start with manageable weights and progressively increase resistance over time.

Your body responds best to steady, consistent effort rather than dramatic changes.

For Muslim women specifically, modest activewear can significantly impact how comfortable you feel while training.

Wear what makes you feel both confident and comfortable. Moisture-wicking hijabs, long sleeves, and loose-fitting joggers are excellent for staying cool while maintaining coverage.

Poll

What's your go-to workout time?

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Beginning Your Fitness Journey

Cosmo ME: Where should Muslim women start if they're new to exercise?

Saman: Starting doesn't have to be complicated or intimidating. I actually encourage beginning small to build confidence and momentum.

If you prefer working out at home, invest in basic equipment—a pair of dumbbells and resistance bands can take you far. Follow beginner-friendly full-body workouts two or three times per week.

If you want to try a gym setting, look for women-only facilities or gyms offering women-only hours. When possible, work with a female trainer—ideally someone who understands your faith and lifestyle so you feel supported and respected.

Most importantly, remember your journey is unique. You don't need to copy what others are doing on social media. Focus on building sustainable habits for the long term.

Final Words of Encouragement

Cosmo ME: Any closing motivation for our readers?

Saman: I want every Muslim woman reading this to know: you're capable of far more than you realize.

Strength doesn't mean lifting the heaviest weights or achieving a certain appearance.

It's about consistently showing up for yourself, pushing through challenges, and recognizing that your body is Allah's gift that deserves care.

Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle. Small, consistent actions create incredible results over time.

Whether it's a 20-minute home workout or a full gym session, what matters is that you keep moving, keep trying, and maintain pure intentions to be strong in body, mind, and spirit for Allah's sake.

Source: cosmopolitanme

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.