Workout Partners—Both Good and Bad

You set your gym clothes out the night before. Your
running shoes wait by the door. But you just can’t seem
to get out of bed. You need something to motivate you.
That’s when your workout partner knocks on the door.
You know she’s dressed and ready for your morning
jog. It’s time to get out of bed and put on your running
shoes!
Having a workout partner, whether it’s a friend or family
member, can really help when you just can’t seem to
make it on your own. While you might skip the jog if it’s
just you, the thought of letting your buddy down can get
you up and going. Having a friend with you can also turn
the work part of your workout into fun.
But what happens if your pal can’t give you the support
you need? A workout buddy who doesn’t help you stick
to your goals can do more harm than good. Here are
some tips to help you choose a partner who is more of a
cheerleader than a couch potato.
1. Look for shared goals. Find friends who are
shooting for the same goal, or close to it. Maybe
you haven’t been active in a while and just want
to fit into your favorite jeans. If so, a friend who is
training for their second triathlon may not be your
best match.
2. Share the love. You can have more than one
workout buddy. It’s OK if Sharon from work is your
walking friend, but you play tennis on Wednesdays
with Tim from your book club. And you can still join
a weekend hiking group with Linda, your friend from
school. The more workout pals you have, the lower
your chance of being stuck without something active
to do.
3. Keep it fresh. If you or your walking buddy start to
grow bored with your daily walk, suggest something
else. The more fun you have being active, the more
active you will want to be. Go out and try something
new. If you like it, keep it. If not, try the next thing
on your list. From yoga to Zumba®, there are many
ways to get fit.
While a friend may help keep you going, the choice to be
active is really yours. Make activity fun. Choose the right
partner. Then tell yourself to get up and move.