Battling the "Low-Energy Demon" and Winning!

Why do so many people struggle to make time for fitness?

We are all aware of the benefits of being "in-shape", here are just a few of them:

- More energy
- More strength
- Longevity
- Less depression
- Better sleep
- More confidence
- Sharper memory
- More physical capabilities

I am pretty sure most people would want all of that! So again, why do so many people make so many excuses about not being able to exercise regularly? Why is it that on average only 10% of members of a gym attend regularly (3 or more times/week)? My personal belief is that many people are afraid of the pain that "LED" lies to us about!

Let me clarify. Often, most people have a moment of mental debate before they decide to exercise. It is at this point when the "Low-Energy Demon" (LED for short!) pops up! LED tells us "You don't have enough energy to workout hard enough to make a difference! You might as well not go to the gym today." LED also tells us "Do you really want to put yourself through that much pain right now? You are plenty cozy doing what you are doing. Besides, you really need to spend more time with your family! Why are you trying to be so 'selfish'!"

LED is a liar! In order for you to be successful with your fitness goals, or any virtuous endeavour for that matter, you have to put LED in its place! You must first pray and then do as Ephesians 6:10 tells us and "Put on the full Armor of God". LED is a reminder that our battle is not physical but spiritual. God wants the best for you! Cast your cares upon the Lord!

Once you have prayed, keep these points in mind:

• Exercise actually creates energy, it doesn't take energy away. If you have low energy, then give what little energy that you have to exercise and it will compound that energy and give it back to you! Just as the Scriptures tell us, "What you sow, so shall you reap!" Your energy levels will continue to climb as you continue to put forth energy.

• When LED pops up again trying to scare you about the "pain of exercise", remind LED that being diagnosed with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and depression will be one thousand times more painful!

• If LED tries to tell you that you need to skip spending time at the gym to spend time with the family, tell LED "Spending 30-60mins/day on myself will allow me to be a fit daddy or fit mommy and that sets a far greater example to my children than spending that time with the kids in front of the television!" Also tell LED "I am going to the gym so that I CAN have energy to chase after my children and not be so exhausted anymore!"

By following these recommendations, you can keep LED at bay! Remember, when you listen to LED you can wind up Dead!

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:10-12 NIV