8 For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. (1 Timothy 4:8 CSB)

We can submit the body to rigorous training, be that just to keep in shape or for some event. The body benefits but the soul does not. Thus the benefit is limited and not lasting but temporary.

When we train the spirit and the mind to do good works that God puts before us, there is eternal benefit. Not only for us but for those around us.

Thus we have the choice to focus on ourselves and the limited benefit of this life, or the unlimited benefits of the life to come.